In a noteworthy development, the former “disinformation” reporter for NBC News has transitioned into the position of CEO at the satirical news outlet, The Onion.
Ben Collins announced the news on Thursday via X, expressing his excitement about the acquisition. He emphasized plans to maintain the entirety of The Onion’s staff, revive The Onion News Network, and prioritize staff welfare and autonomy.
Having covered “disinformation, extremism, and the internet for NBC News,” Collins is recognized for his left-leaning political stance, often expressing liberal viewpoints on social media platforms. His vocal criticism of Elon Musk’s involvement with Twitter reportedly resulted in a temporary ban from covering the billionaire in 2022. Collins has also been vocal about media coverage, including the reporting on the “Twitter Files” incident in 2020.
Despite his relatively limited publication output in recent times, Collins has remained active in the media landscape, making appearances on MSNBC. Notable moments include his analysis of the Club Q shooting and his emotional reflections on the role of reporters in such tragedies.
In his final days at NBC News, Collins attracted attention through his social media posts, particularly regarding the media’s coverage of various controversies.
The acquisition of The Onion by Global Tetrahedron, a newly-founded firm, underscores the continued relevance and significance of the satirical publication. The commitment to retaining The Onion’s entire staff in Chicago reflects the importance placed on preserving the publication’s unique identity and character.
The transition marks an intriguing chapter for both Collins and The Onion, with expectations of continued satire and social commentary under his leadership.
