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

Even though they have largely kept their pasts to themselves, the relationship between the journalist and the comedian has piqued public interest, particularly after Weiss’s ascent to a prominent editorial role at CBS News.

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

Bari Weiss, who was recently appointed as the editor-in-chief of CBS News following the acquisition of her venture, The Free Press, by Paramount for approximately $150 million, has a noteworthy personal background filled with significant relationships. She has been married to fellow journalist Nellie Bowles since 2021, and together they have two children.

Weiss’s bond with Bowles showcases a blend of personal and professional collaboration, as the duo co-founded The Free Press and have both held positions at The New York Times.

Before her marriage to Nellie Bowles, Weiss had a complex dating history. Apart from her noted relationship with Kate McKinnon during college, Weiss was married to environmental engineer Jason Kass from 2013 to 2016.

Her inclination toward fluid sexual identity is marked by her openness about attraction, stating she does not label her orientation strictly and has been mostly attracted to women.

Kate McKinnon’s Relationship History Beyond Bari Weiss

Kate McKinnon’s romantic life expanded beyond her college relationship with Weiss. She has been known to be in a long-term, private relationship with Jackie Abbott since 2016, attending 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.