David Ellison vows Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger won't cut film output

Key Points:

• Paramount Skydance chief David Ellison reassured movie theater owners at CinemaCon that the planned acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery will not harm the movie business, promising a minimum of 30 films annually across both studios.
• Ellison's appearance followed concerns from Hollywood professionals and advocacy groups, including Bryan Cranston and Jane Fonda, who warned the merger could reduce creative opportunities, jobs, and competition in the industry.
• Despite calls for Ellison to testify about the deal's impact at a Senate hearing, he was absent due to a family funeral, according to Paramount's public policy head.
• Ellison emphasized the importance of theatrical releases, committing to a minimum 45-day theatrical window for every film before moving to streaming, and highlighted film as a vital cultural and business asset.
• The Justice Department is still reviewing the merger on antitrust grounds, while Ellison continues to engage with political and industry figures, including hosting events honoring former President Donald Trump.