Ynon Kreiz, departing as Mattel CEO after eight years, will join David Ellison's Paramount in a senior role as the studio prepares to close its mega-merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. Kreiz, a veteran media executive who previously led Maker Studios and Endemol Group, is credited with strengthening Mattel's market position and overseeing the blockbuster Barbie film. The merged Paramount-WBD awaits final antitrust approval from a judge before completing the $111 billion deal.
Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz is reportedly leaving to join David Ellison's combined Paramount-Warner Bros. entertainment company in a senior role. Kreiz, who led Mattel's successful pivot into entertainment with hits like Barbie, brings extensive experience in both creative operations and global business. His appointment requires approval from a judge overseeing the Paramount-Warner Bros. merger settlement.
Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz is resigning effective October 2 after leading the toy company since 2018, with board member Roger Lynch set to replace him. The announcement caused Mattel stock to fall over 3% in premarket trading.