David Ellison, CEO of Skydance and new Paramount owner

David Ellison, CEO of Skydance, is poised to take control of Paramount in a merger deal with significant implications for Hollywood. The merger, negotiated with Paramount's controlling shareholder, Shari Redstone, would place Ellison at the helm of a media empire encompassing CBS, MTV, and Paramount Studios. Son of Oracle founder Larry Ellison, David Ellison transitioned from a brief acting career to producing, backed by family influence. His company, Skydance Media, known for blockbusters like "Mission: Impossible — Ghost Protocol," saw substantial growth with investments from firms like RedBird Capital Partners. Ellison's strategy includes enhancing Paramount's streaming capabilities and integrating tech and animation expertise. The merger could consolidate their shared franchises like "Mission: Impossible" and "Top Gun," while exploring joint ventures in streaming. Ellison's background in daredevil pursuits and familial ties to Hollywood underscore his rise as a major industry player.