Tanya Simon has officially been named executive producer of CBS News’ iconic newsmagazine 60 Minutes, becoming the first woman ever to lead the broadcast in its 57-year history. Simon takes over from Bill Owens, who stepped down earlier this year after citing corporate interference as the reason for his departure, telling staff that he “would not be allowed to run the show as I have always run it.” Simon had been serving as interim EP since his resignation.
Her appointment was not only widely expected but also warmly received inside CBS News, where correspondents had earlier rallied in her support. In a letter sent to CBS chief George Cheeks, the program’s correspondents strongly backed Simon as their preferred choice to lead the show into its next era.
Simon has deep roots in the program and the network. A producer at 60 Minutes for 25 years, she began her career at CBS in 1996 as a researcher for 48 Hours. She is also the daughter of the late Bob Simon, a legendary correspondent for the newsmagazine.
CBS News president Tom Cibrowski praised Simon’s appointment, saying, “Tanya Simon understands what makes 60 Minutes tick. She is an innovative leader, an exceptional producer, and someone who knows how to inspire people. Tanya knows that the success of today’s 60 Minutes depends on delivering a weekly mix of the most informative, impactful and entertaining stories and investigative journalism from around the world. This is the true essence and foundation of 60 Minutes.”
Simon also reflected on the significance of her new role. “It is a privilege to lead 60 Minutes and its formidable team of journalists,” she said. “‘60’ is in a class of its own, upholding a legacy of extraordinary and thought-provoking journalism for more than half a century. I’m deeply committed to this level of excellence and I look forward to delivering an exciting season of signature 60 stories that cover a wide range of subjects for a broad audience and engage viewers with their world.” Her promotion comes at a turbulent time for CBS News, following a recent legal settlement between parent company Paramount Global and former President Donald Trump over a 60 Minutes interview with then-Vice President Kamala Harris. Though widely regarded as a meritless case, the settlement prompted internal frustration and concern across the newsroom. Amid that backdrop, Simon’s elevation has brought what one source described as a wave of “relief and cheers” within the network.
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