FCC Clears Paramount-Skydance Merger; Ellison to Lead

The U.S. Federal Communications Commission has approved the $8 billion merger between Paramount Global and Skydance Media, clearing the way for a major media consolidation. Paramount settled a $16 million lawsuit with President Donald Trump over alleged biased editing on CBS's 60 Minutes, and Skydance agreed to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and install an ombudsman to address editorial bias concerns. FCC Chair Brendan Carr, a Trump appointee, praised the merger for promoting a diversity of viewpoints and restoring trust in legacy media. David Ellison of Skydance will serve as chairman and CEO of the combined company, which will oversee CBS, Paramount Pictures, and MTV. Critics argue that the concessions could threaten editorial independence and suggest increased political influence over media operations. The merger is expected to close in early August, significantly reshaping Hollywood’s media landscape.