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Paramount, CNN Chief Mark Thompson in Discussions to Keep Him in Post
Variety • • business
Key Points:
- Paramount Skydance and CNN chief Mark Thompson are in early talks about his continued leadership, suggesting CBS News and CNN will remain separate initially amid the Warner Bros. Discovery acquisition.
- Thompson has emphasized the importance of CNN's editorial independence, with Paramount agreeing to establish a board to oversee this as part of a legal settlement related to the deal.
- CNN staffers are concerned about Paramount CEO David Ellison's commitment to credible journalism and the future direction of CNN's streaming service, given recent leadership changes and corporate shifts.
- Thompson expressed enthusiasm about staying in his role but acknowledged uncertainty about Paramount Skydance's plans for running news after the acquisition is finalized.
- Both Paramount and CNN declined to comment on the discussions, and Thompson's current contract runs through 2027.
