US FCC Approves Paramount and Skydance $8 Billion Merger Amid Political Tensions
The US Federal Communications Commission (US FCC) has approved an $8 billion (£5.9 billion) merger between Skydance Media and Paramount Global. This big transaction brings together a lively independent studio and one of Hollywood’s oldest and most famous entertainment businesses. The merger was first suggested in 2024, and it is planned to be finished on August 7, 2025.
US FCC Grants Final Clearance for Paramount-Skydance Deal
The US FCC authorized the transfer of 28 CBS-owned TV station licenses to Skydance. The Commission approved the deal with a 2-1 vote. Republican commissioners supported it, while Democrat Anna Gomez dissented.
FCC Chair Brendan Carr, appointed by President Trump, praised Skydance’s plans to reform CBS. He said Americans had lost trust in traditional media. Carr welcomed Skydance’s pledge to support “unbiased journalism” through an ombudsman role for reviewing bias complaints.
Skydance also committed to ending diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This aligns with Trump-era policies against DEI efforts.
Trump Settlement Paved the Way for Merger Approval
Weeks before the US FCC made its decision, Paramount settled a legal case involving Donald Trump. The dispute focused on a “60 Minutes” interview with Kamala Harris, which Trump said was deceptively edited.
Paramount agreed to pay $16 million (£13.5 million) to resolve the lawsuit. The money will fund Trump’s future presidential library, not benefit him personally. Paramount did not admit fault or issue an apology.
Sources say this settlement helped avoid delays in the merger approval. Trump’s influence over the FCC may have played a role in the timing.
Colbert’s Late Show Ends as CBS Faces Restructuring
CBS recently announced it would end The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. The show often criticized Trump. CBS called the cancellation a financial decision, unrelated to content or ratings. Still, the timing sparked speculation.
Paramount’s Legacy Enters a New Era Under Skydance
Founded in 1914, Paramount Global owns major brands like CBS, MTV, Nickelodeon, and Paramount Pictures. The company has faced financial struggles in recent years.
Now, Skydance CEO David Ellison—son of Oracle founder Larry Ellison—will lead the merged media powerhouse. The next chapter of Paramount unfolds under Skydance’s leadership and close oversight by the US FCC.
