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 Paramount Skydance deal nears completion.
CNN Chairman and Editor-in-Chief Mark Thompson announced Monday he will continue in his role following the merger of Warner Bros. Discovery with Paramount Skydance. Thompson will report directly to David Ellison, the chairman and chief executive of the combined company, Skydance, and its new co-CEO Ynon Kreiz, who previously led Mattel.
In a memo to employees, Thompson expressed confidence that Skydance executives understand and will support CNN's commitment to independent news. He acknowledged potential employee concerns about the transition but stated he feels positive about the future.
While specific operational details for CNN within the new company are still being finalized, Thompson indicated that his responsibilities and prerogatives will remain the same. His current contract is set to expire in the spring, and he has been in discussions regarding its renewal.
Bari Weiss, editor-in-chief of CBS News, will retain her position. She was previously anticipated to take a role at CNN, but the decision was made that her current responsibilities at CBS News are sufficient. Despite public scrutiny over some of her editorial decisions at CBS News, including staff reductions and hiring choices, Weiss has maintained the support of the Ellison family.
David Ellison will focus on the long-term strategy and creative direction of Skydance, while Kreiz will manage day-to-day operations and integration efforts. Ellison, Kreiz, and Skydance President Andy Gordon will also serve on the company's board of directors, with Ellison as chairman.
The significant media merger is expected to close Tuesday, following an antitrust settlement with California Attorney General Rob Bonta. The settlement included an agreement to establish independent editorial boards for CNN and CBS News, addressing concerns that the Ellisons' ties to former President Trump might influence coverage.
Thompson joined CNN in 2023 after a tenure as president and CEO of The New York Times, where he oversaw the publication's digital transformation. He plans to continue focusing on CNN's digital subscription growth, a strategy he believes aligns with the new company's vision.