Paramount CEO Ellison asks CNN chief Thompson to stay after Warner Bros deal, source says

On October 1, Reuters reported that Paramount CEO David Ellison has requested CNN Chief Executive Mark Thompson to remain in his position following the acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery by the media conglomerate. The two executives have held recent discussions on a new contract to keep Thompson in the role, though they have not yet agreed on specific terms.

CNN's news anchor maintains that editorial independence is a top priority for him, and he seeks assurances that he would retain significant control over CNN's journalism, according to Reuters. Paramount is still determining how to manage the collaboration between CNN and CBS News after the merger, the source added. The Wall Street Journal initially broke the news.

A US judge had previously granted permission for the $110 billion acquisition on Wednesday, allowing the deal to close without further delay. The finalized merger will merge CNN and CBS News under a single ownership. As part of a September 21 settlement, the combined entity must establish an independent News Editorial Independence Board to uphold editorial autonomy and fact-based reporting at both CBS News and CNN.