Skydance Unveils 12 Org Charts, Consolidating Power Under Ellison
David Ellison has finalized the leadership structure for Skydance, the new entity formed by the merger of Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery. The company released 12 organizational charts detailing executive roles across streaming, technology, television, sports, and advertising. Key appointments include Casey Bloys as co-chair of direct-to-consumer content and George Cheeks as co-chair of television. The restructuring prioritizes Paramount and HBO executives, while several Warner Bros. Discovery leaders, including tech chief Avi Saxena and film co-chairs Mike De Luca and Pam Abdy, have exited. The new structure aims to integrate HBO, Paramount+, and various cable networks into a unified media powerhouse.
Key points
- Skydance released 12 org charts outlining leadership for streaming, tech, TV, sports, and advertising.
- David Ellison and Ynon Kreiz serve as co-CEOs, with Andy Gordon as president.
- Casey Bloys leads direct-to-consumer content, overseeing HBO and Paramount+.
- George Cheeks leads television, overseeing Warner Bros. Television, CBS Studios, and Paramount Television Studios.
- Dane Glasgow leads product and technology, primarily with Paramount executives.
- Jay Askinasi leads advertising, while Dennis Cinelli serves as chief financial officer.
Background
The merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery closed on October 6, 2026, creating Skydance. Earlier reports indicated that HBO Max and Paramount+ would eventually merge into a single streaming service. David Ellison had previously terminated Warner Bros. co-chairs Mike De Luca and Pam Abdy, prioritizing loyalty to existing allies. CNN CEO Mark Thompson confirmed his desire to stay under the new ownership, despite concerns about editorial independence.
How outlets are covering it
Business Insider provides a comprehensive overview of the 12 org charts, highlighting the consolidation of power under Ellison and the departure of several Warner Bros. Discovery executives. Front Office Sports focuses on the sports division, detailing exits and promotions under David Berson, including the departure of former TNT Sports CEO Luis Silberwasser. Deadline emphasizes the television division, noting the creation of Skydance TV Studios and the leadership of George Cheeks. TV News Check highlights the communications team under Melissa Zukerman. All sources agree on the core leadership appointments but differ in emphasis, with Business Insider providing the broadest view, while Front Office Sports, Deadline, and TV News Check focus on specific divisions.
Why it matters
The new leadership structure determines how Skydance will compete with Netflix and Disney. The integration of HBO, Paramount+, and various cable networks under a unified command could streamline content distribution and advertising revenue. The departure of key Warner Bros. Discovery executives may impact the creative output and technological capabilities of the new entity. The consolidation of power under Ellison and his allies could influence the editorial independence of news outlets like CNN and CBS News.
What to watch
Skydance will continue to integrate its various divisions, including the eventual merger of HBO Max and Paramount+. The company will likely announce further leadership changes and strategic initiatives as it works through the integration process. The new leadership team will focus on maximizing the value of programming, franchises, and brands, and strengthening connections with audiences.
- 12 Skydance org charts reveal the execs who gained power in streaming, tech, and more after the Paramount-WBD merger Business Insider
- Skydance Shakes Up CBS, TNT Sports C-Suites After Takeover Front Office Sports
- George Cheeks Unveils Skydance TV Leadership Team Across Studios, Sports, Entertainment & News Deadline
- Melissa Zukerman, Skydance Chief Comms Officer, reveals Her Core Execs TV News Check
- Skydance Names Europe and Africa Team as Andrew Georgiou Departs Northeast Times
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