Paramount CEO seeks to keep CNN chief Mark Thompson after Warner Bros. Discovery merger

Paramount Pictures chief David Ellison has indicated an interest in keeping CNN chief Mark Thompson in place after the Warner Bros. Discovery transaction closes, a move that could quell speculation about the network's leadership under new ownership. Sources familiar with the discussions say the talks are in their early stages. Thompson, who was appointed to lead CNN in 2023, has overseen the integration of the channel's linear and digital operations and the launch of the All Access subscription and streaming service.

During his tenure, CNN has continued its coverage of the Trump administration and pursued a lawsuit after the former president barred the network and two other outlets from the White House. The network has also defended its reporters against attacks, including those directed at chief White House correspondent Kaitlan Collins.

Thompson previously served as president and CEO of The New York Times Company from 2012 to 2020 and spent eight years as director-general of the BBC. A separate report noted that CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss is not expected to assume a role at CNN, despite speculation about potential responsibilities after the merger.

Financial filings released earlier this year projected CNN to generate about $1.8 billion in revenue and $600 million in profit for the 2026 fiscal year, with revenue expected to rise to $2.2 billion and profit to $700 million by 2030.