Ankler Agenda Bari Weiss, MS Now & the Sad Battle for the Last TV News Viewer (Age: 70)
Nov 6, 2025
Lachlan Cartwright, co-founder of Breaker Media and a media reporter, dives into the media landscape's transformation. He discusses the rise of 'newsfluencers' overshadowing traditional cable news, with viewers' ages skewing older. Lachlan shares insider insights on Bari Weiss's controversial leadership at CBS News, including staff concerns and her unconventional style. The conversation also touches on the challenges of attracting younger audiences, the future of MSNOW, and the impact of recent political shifts on media trust.
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TV News Losing Its Broad Grip
- TV news no longer commands mass attention; many younger viewers skip cable even on big events.
- Hosts observed election coverage audiences migrating to phones and online platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
Inside The Free Press Election Night Party
- Lachlan attended a Free Press Chinatown party and described an electric, celebratory vibe among attendees.
- He joked he sneaked in without Barry Weiss's "beefy bodyguards" and enjoyed top-shelf free drinks.
Name Change Won't Save Outdated TV Models
- Rebranding (MSNBC to MSNOW) needs heavy ad spend but content and platform fit determine success.
- Networks must meet audiences on YouTube, TikTok and rebuild news-gathering capabilities to stay relevant.
