Mark Thompson to Remain CNN Chairman Amid Warner Bros. Discovery Merger
Bari Weiss will also stay in her role at CBS News as the $81 billion deal approaches completion.
CNN Chairman and Editor-in-Chief Mark Thompson announced Monday that he will continue in his role following the completion of the $81 billion merger between Paramount, Skydance, and Warner Bros. Discovery. Thompson will report directly to David Ellison, the chairman and chief executive of the newly formed Skydance entity, and its co-CEO Ynon Kreiz, who previously led Mattel.
Thompson conveyed confidence in his memo to employees, stating that Skydance executives understand and will uphold CNN's commitment to independent news. "I find myself in a very positive frame of mind," Thompson wrote, acknowledging employee concerns while expressing optimism about the transition.
While specific operational details for CNN within the new company are still being finalized, Thompson indicated that his responsibilities and prerogatives will remain unchanged. His current contract is set to expire in the spring, and he has been in discussions for a renewal.
Bari Weiss, editor-in-chief of CBS News, will also retain her position. Weiss was initially expected to lead CNN, but reports suggest that Ellison concluded her current role was sufficient. Despite public scrutiny over her leadership decisions at CBS News, including layoffs and hiring practices, Weiss reportedly remains in favor with the Ellison family.
The merger, expected to close Tuesday, received antitrust approval after an agreement to implement independent editorial boards for CNN and CBS News. This measure was introduced following concerns that the Ellisons, allies of former President Trump, might influence network coverage.
Thompson, who joined CNN in 2023 after a tenure as president and CEO of The New York Times, will continue to focus on CNN's digital subscription business. He noted that the new leadership shares enthusiasm for this initiative.
David Ellison will concentrate on Skydance's long-term strategy and creative direction, while Kreiz will manage daily operations and business integration. Both will serve on the board of directors, with Ellison as chairman. The integration of Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount is a significant development in the media landscape, creating a new conglomerate under the Skydance umbrella.