Paramount CEO David Ellison intends to retain Mark Thompson as CNN's leader following the Warner Bros Discovery merger, settling uncertainty about the network's future leadership. Thompson, who joined CNN in 2023, has overseen digital integration and launched CNN's All Access streaming service while the network has aggressively covered the Trump administration and defended its journalists against presidential attacks.
Paramount and Skydance are in early-stage discussions with CNN Chief Mark Thompson about keeping him in his leadership role as the company acquires Warner Bros. Discovery, signaling the company may initially keep CBS News and CNN separate. Thompson has expressed enthusiasm about staying and has prioritized growing CNN's digital and younger audience reach during his tenure.