A lawsuit brought by a former CBS writer has led to changes at both CBS Studios and its parent company, Paramount Global. The case challenged how diversity initiatives were being applied behind the scenes, prompting updates to hiring practices.
Former “SEAL Team” freelancer Brian Beneker filed the lawsuit in February 2024, where he claimed he was denied a staff writer job because he is a heterosexual white man.
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Allegations of discrimination
Beneker, who had written for “SEAL Team” since 2017, said he was passed over for staff positions multiple times. He alleged that those hired instead were non-white, LGBTQ+ or female, despite having fewer screenwriting credits and less experience.
In 2020, CBS announced a diversity pledge for its reality shows. The company said 50% of cast members for the 2021–22 season would be “Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC).”
America First Legal, which represented Beneker, said a similar 50% quota was also set for writers’ rooms by the 2022–23 season. Beneker argued that the policy violated employment laws.
Paramount and CBS settlement terms
CBS attempted to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing its hiring decisions were protected under the First Amendment. However, the judge denied the motion, stating that the issues should be addressed through a motion for summary judgment.
Fast forward to April 2025 and the two sides have reached a settlement.
As part of the agreement, Paramount and CBS agreed to end certain DEI practices. According to America First Legal, the companies agreed to:
- End numerical goals related to race, ethnicity, sex or gender.
- Stop collecting demographic data on applicants.
- Remove a 5% funding bonus for programs advancing DEI goals.
Paramount had already notified employees in February 2025 that it was winding down its DEI policies, according to a memo obtained by CNBC.
Nick Barry, senior counsel for America First Legal, praised the outcome.
“America First Legal is pleased to see Paramount and CBS publicly back off their DEI requirements and return to merit-based considerations,” Barry said. “Diversity quotas that discriminate on the basis of race are unlawful. Others in the entertainment industry should take note.”
The full terms of the settlement were not disclosed. However, America First Legal confirmed that Beneker voluntarily dismissed his claims following the amicable resolution.
Neither CBS nor Paramount has publicly addressed the settlement.
