Concerns and Speculation Surround Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery Merger

The upcoming merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery has left CNN employees anxious. With CNN potentially falling under David Ellison’s control, many at the network are worried about their future. Staffers believe the merger is ‘inevitable,’ despite delays, adding little comfort to a company that has experienced numerous leadership changes. One CNN insider shared, ‘There has been no change in morale. People view the situation as either bad or worse.’

Paramount’s goal is to build a massive media empire by acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery for $111 billion. Although the European Union and the U.S. Department of Justice have approved the deal, an antitrust lawsuit from California Attorney General Rob Bonta is holding things up. A Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) blocked the merger until at least August 17, with Paramount agreeing to delay until next year.

David Ellison, Paramount’s Skydance Chairman and CEO, would manage both CBS News and CNN if the merger proceeds. Some CNN employees are worried about changes under Ellison’s leadership. Many are concerned about potential job losses. Another CNN insider expressed frustration with ongoing speculation, noting, ‘Most people just want whatever done, done.’

CNN has seen a series of leadership changes in recent years. Former CEO Jeff Zucker redefined the network during his tenure, making it a strong critic of President Donald Trump. After his departure, Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav appointed Chris Licht as the new leader. Licht aimed to reduce the network’s left-leaning programming, but he failed to win the trust of Zucker’s loyal workforce. Tensions peaked when Licht arranged a CNN town hall with Trump, leading to criticism from CNN staff and viewers. Licht’s controversial remarks to Trump further angered employees, and he was eventually replaced by Mark Thompson.

Thompson, known for his successful time at The New York Times and the BBC, now leads CNN. However, his future is uncertain with the looming Paramount takeover. There were rumors that Bari Weiss, Ellison’s chosen editor-in-chief of CBS News, could play a significant role at CNN. Thompson reportedly refused to share oversight of CNN with another executive. Although Thompson has not caused internal conflict like Licht, ongoing concerns over ratings, digital strategy, and takeover speculation persist.

If Ellison gains control, this merger would follow a similar deal where his company acquired CBS News. Critics argue that Weiss and Ellison favor Trump, which raises concerns among CNN staff. Despite Ellison’s vow to maintain CNN’s editorial independence, staffers remain cautious. CNN anchors Anderson Cooper and Jake Tapper reportedly have reservations about working with Weiss. Cooper, in particular, openly expressed unwillingness to work under Weiss. Additional concerns came from CNN contributor Kara Swisher, who threatened to leave if Ellison takes control due to the perceived incompetence of his chosen team.

Following the merger rumors, CNN international correspondent Clarissa Ward opted for a short-term contract renewal. According to reports, many CNN employees are considering their positions post-merger. Paramount argues the merger is legal and advantageous. They remain determined to defend the transaction in upcoming hearings.

For more updates, follow Joseph A. Wulfsohn, Fox News Digital’s media reporter on Twitter: @JosephWulfsohn.