‘60 Minutes’ Is a ‘Cage Full of Tigers.’ Can Nick Bilton Lead It?

Article excerpt

Nick Bilton, a tech journalist and filmmaker known for his documentaries, took over as leader of '60 Minutes' this week, a surprise choice for one of television's most prestigious but notoriously fractious newsrooms. His first days were tumultuous, marked by clashing personalities and competing agendas among the show's veteran correspondents and producers, who have long battled over story selection and editorial direction. The assignment puts Bilton in charge of a unit that operates more like a collection of independent fiefdoms than a unified team, where established stars guard their turf fiercely. His background in digital media and filmmaking differs sharply from the traditional broadcast journalism that built '60 Minutes'' reputation, raising questions about whether he can navigate, or reform, the show's legendary internal dynamics.