Susan Zirinsky tapped to become CBS News' first female president, replacing David Rhodes

Los Angeles Times

The veteran 48 Hours producer -- who joined CBS News in 1972 and who inspired Holly Hunter's Broadcast News character -- was in consideration to become the new executive producer of 60 Minutes. Now Zirinsky, known as "Z," will run the entire CBS News division that has been rocked by sexual misconduct scandals and other issues. She'll also pick who'll replace Jeff Fager as 60 Minutes producer. “60 Minutes is the No. 1 news program and will continue to be that,” CBS' acting CEO Joe Ianniello told the Los Angeles Times. “Susan can add more value creatively on some of our other broadcasts and have an impact that’s much greater on the entire organization.” Even though Rhodes' contract as CBS News president was set to expire early this year, his exit has reportedly come as a surprise among staffers. “I can think of no one more equipped than ‘Z’ for the job, and we are delighted she has welcomed these new responsibilities," Ianniello said in an email to CBS News staffers.