Scott Pelley Fired from ’60 Minutes’: What We Know

Since the merger of CBS News’ parent company, Paramount, with Skydance last year, the network has seen a wave of cancellations and firings. In May 2026, the iconic show 60 Minutes faced scrutiny after several established journalists were let go, with Scott Pelley being the latest to exit. Pelley, who was an integral part of the program since 2004, lost his position following a reported conflict with network executives.

Discover the reasons behind Pelley’s unexpected departure from 60 Minutes below.

Was Scott Pelley Dismissed From CBS?

Indeed, Scott Pelley was dismissed from CBS after over two decades with the network. The executive producer, Nick Bilton, confirmed this decision in a communication to the 60 Minutes staff. According to NBC News, Bilton stated that CBS had “parted ways” with Pelley.

“I understand how significant Scott was to many of you, and I do not make this announcement lightly,” Bilton expressed in his letter to the team. “I made several attempts to engage in direct discussions with him over the weekend, and this afternoon I sought to reach a mutual understanding. Unfortunately, that was not the direction Scott opted for.”

What Led to Scott Pelley’s Termination From 60 Minutes?

Pelley’s dismissal was attributed to his “hostility towards the future” of 60 Minutes. In a letter addressed to Pelley, Bilton conveyed this sentiment, as reported by NBC News.

“Your hostility towards the future of the program has been unmistakably clear. I have listened to your concerns,” Bilton wrote. “As a result, I am writing on behalf of CBS News, Inc. to notify you that your employment at CBS is terminated for cause, effective immediately.”

Which Other Journalists Were Let Go From 60 Minutes?

Cecilia Vega and Sharyn Alfonsi have also publicly acknowledged their terminations from 60 Minutes.

Cecilia, the first Latina correspondent for 60 Minutes, announced her firing and accused CBS of attempting to manipulate her team’s investigative reporting.

“In recent months, my production teams and I have faced efforts to introduce political bias into our stories,” Vega claimed. “Our reporting teams have hesitated to pitch stories on critical issues due to concerns about internal backlash.”

Regarding Alfonsi, she revealed in a public statement that her contract was not renewed.

“This past weekend, my contract with CBS News expired, marking the end of 20 years with the network, including over a decade with 60 Minutes,” Sharyn disclosed to the Los Angeles Times. “After a contentious editorial disagreement regarding our CECOT story, my efforts to find a way forward through my representatives were met with complete silence from network executives. The message was clear: my time with 60 Minutes is evidently concluded.”

Is 60 Minutes Facing Cancellation?

As of this publication, CBS has not made any formal announcements regarding the cancellation of 60 Minutes. The program is currently not canceled.