Bari Weiss and Kate McKinnon once shared an on-again, off-again romantic relationship during their college years at Columbia University.

Although both have kept details of their histories under wraps, the unusual pairing of the journalist and the comedian has sparked public intrigue, especially following Weiss’s ascent to a high-profile editorial role at CBS News.

The CBS Editor-in-Chief Bari Weiss: Personal Life and Relationships

Bari Weiss, recently appointed as editor-in-chief at CBS News following Paramount’s acquisition of her venture, The Free Press, for approximately $150 million, has a vibrant personal life enriched by significant relationships. She has been married to journalist Nellie Bowles since 2021, and they share two children.

Weiss’s relationship with Bowles highlights both personal and professional unity, as they co-founded The Free Press and have both been employed at The New York Times.

Prior to her union with Nellie Bowles, Weiss navigated a complex romantic past. Besides a prominent college relationship with Kate McKinnon, she was married to environmental engineer Jason Kass from 2013 to 2016.

Her tendency towards a fluid sexual identity is underscored by her openness about her attractions, indicating she does not confine herself to specific labels and has generally been drawn to women.

Kate McKinnon’s Relationship History Beyond Bari Weiss

Kate McKinnon’s love life extended beyond her college romance with Weiss. She has maintained a long-term, discreet relationship with Jackie Abbott since 2016, with the couple making appearances at public events together.

McKinnon is also rumored or reported to have had past links with Marla Mindelle and Ivanna Sakhno, though none have been confirmed as seriously as her connection with Weiss or Abbott.

Key Highlights in Bari Weiss’s Editor-in-chief Position at CBS News

Weiss’s appointment as editor-in-chief of CBS News is part of Paramount’s strategic vision aiming to modernize the news brand by adding editorial vigor and balanced perspectives.

Paramount’s CEO David Ellison emphasizes Weiss’s entrepreneurial spirit as a revitalizing force. Her leadership is anticipated to introduce innovation and evidence-based journalism aimed at a broad audience, while also heightening CBS’s reputation for unbiased news coverage.

Breaking News: Paramount is buying The Free Press for $150 million and appointing Bari Weiss, the news site’s co-founder, as the editor in chief of CBS News. https://t.co/8hvx1Vn8wJ pic.twitter.com/FHseQYJXVg

— The New York Times (@nytimes) October 6, 2025

Controversy and Impact of the CBS Leadership Change

Weiss’s leadership has raised speculation concerning a potential ideological shift at CBS News, especially with her association with The Free Press and the acquisition by Paramount the latter linked to influential figures supportive of former President Donald Trump. Weiss’s memo to staff indicated an encouragement to embrace diverse views, signaling a possible editorial recalibration.