Minutes' boss Bill Owens wants to launch rival news show with Scott Pelley, other fired staffers: sources

Bill Owens, a former executive producer of CBS News’ 60 Minutes, wants to launch a rival, 60 Minutes-style investigative news series with Scott Pelley and other recently departed staff, according to sources. The plan is reported to be seeking about $50 million to fund roughly two years of segments covering staffing, production, marketing and legal costs. Insiders say the effort faces hurdles securing a platform and financing, and that former 60 Minutes journalists may need to take major pay cuts. Owens is also said to be considering other fired or exiting personnel, as CBS’ revamped 60 Minutes leadership struggles with hiring and production changes.