CNN Chief Says He's 'Enthusiastic' About Staying Under Paramount
Variety • • entertainment
Key Points:
- CNN CEO Mark Thompson expressed enthusiasm about staying with the company but admitted he has little knowledge of Paramount Skydance's plans following its acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery.
- Thompson revealed uncertainty about how Paramount will manage CNN, including the timing of any transition or the presence of Paramount executives at CNN offices.
- Paramount's management of CBS News has been controversial, with changes under editor Bari Weiss drawing criticism and causing ratings declines for CBS programs like "CBS Mornings" and "CBS Evening News."
- Weiss' overhaul of "60 Minutes" has also faced backlash, raising concerns among CNN staff about potential impacts under Paramount's ownership.
- Thompson indicated that it remains unclear whether Paramount intends to merge CNN and CBS News, with no specific details available about future strategies.
