It seems that Joe Rogan isn’t under consideration to be a new host of “60 Minutes”, according to a statement from CBS News. Earlier this week, a report claimed that the comedian, UFC color commenter and podcast host could join the long-running news show.
That report from RadarOnline cited unnamed sources and claimed that CBS was looking to bring on Rogan to host the long-running news program. One source described as a “television industry insider” said that tapping Rogan for the role would open “a direct pipeline to a massive MAGA audience,” that CBS has struggled to reach.
Rogan’s podcast, “The Joe Rogan Experience” has a large audience, with Forbes listing it as the most popular podcast in the U.S. during the first quarter of this year, citing Edison Research.
“He speaks to viewers who feel ignored or mocked by legacy media,” said a media executive quoted by RadarOnline. “That could solve the ratings and credibility problems of CBS overnight.”
However, Rogan is not a journalist, and “60 Minutes”, the longest-running news show in TV history is known for investigative journalism. On his show, Rogan can often be heard talking about aliens and conspiracy theories.
Just before the 2024 election, Rogan notably interviewed President Donald Trump, the leader of the “Make America Great Again” or “MAGA” movement. His show has also been criticized for how its team handled a potential booking for Trump’s opponent, former Vice President Kamala Harris.
Additionally, Rogan has faced criticism by doctors and scientists for allegedly spreading misinformation. This year, he has also taken to criticizing the Trump administration, particularly over its handling of files related to the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
“It’s a gamble. Rogan isn’t traditional broadcast talent – he’s raw, unscripted, and polarizing,” said an unnamed veteran producer cited by RadarOnline.
In a statement provided to the Austin-American Statesman, a CBS News spokesperson said that reports on Rogan joining the network are “false.” According to the outlet, it reached out to Rogan’s team for comment.
Anderson Cooper, who was with “60 Minutes” for more than 20 years, left the show last month. Rumors of Rogan joining the show also come at a time when other shakeups are happening at the network and the program.
Last year CBS News’ parent company, Paramount, merged with Skydance Media, a company owned by Trump ally David Ellison. In a controversial move, Bari Weiss was made editor-in-chief of CBS News last October.
This week, longtime “60 Minutes” correspondent Scott Pelley was fired, a day after he reportedly accused Weiss of “murdering the show” and new executive producer Nick Bilton of having inadequate qualifications. Bilton is a technology reporter and filmmaker who does not have traditional broadcast experience who Weiss installed at the show last week.
Pelley said in a statement that “60 Minutes” has lost its DNA under the new management. He also accused the new leadership of trying to “inject falsehoods and bias” into his work.
Weiss has reportedly said that CBS News wants to try a “new approach” for “60 Minutes” so it can thrive in the world of 21st century media. Pelley had been with the show since 1989.
