Bill Maher breaks with Jimmy Kimmel on Scott Pelley controversy
Yahoo • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Bill Maher downplayed the controversy surrounding Scott Pelley's departure from 60 Minutes, stating he never considered Pelley a "national treasure" and suggesting the reaction is overblown.
- Maher argued that new ownership often leads to leadership and creative changes, and questioned if the backlash would be as intense without political involvement.
- He disagreed with views linking Pelley's firing to political interference or comparing it to CBS's treatment of Stephen Colbert, emphasizing the need for more concrete evidence before labeling it a scandal.
- Jimmy Kimmel has criticized CBS leadership harshly, framing Pelley's exit as part of a broader pattern of undermining programming, especially following The Late Show's cancellation.
- Maher acknowledged concerns about President Trump's impact on press freedom but currently views Pelley's firing as a management decision rather than a politically motivated conspiracy.