Staffers at Cnn express significant concerns over Warner Bros. Discovery's decision to pursue a deal with Paramount Skydance instead of Netflix, fearing it will undermine the network's independent journalism. Employees describe themselves as devastated and dread the potential influence from Paramount's management of Cbs News. The shift follows Netflix's withdrawal from a prior agreement, which Warner deemed inferior to Paramount's revised bid.
Warner Bros. Discovery reversed its plan to sell streaming and studio assets to Netflix, opting instead to package the entire company for Paramount Skydance. This move has heightened fears among Cnn staffers, who view Paramount as a shaky overseer of journalism based on its handling of Cbs News. Three sources familiar with the network report palpable dread, with one stating employees are “devastated” and another noting “no one is happy.”
The deal emerged after Netflix walked away from its agreement on Thursday, prompted by Paramount's revised bid, which Warner Bros. Discovery called “superior.” During an investor call, C.E.O. David Zaslav emphasized a “rigorous” process to maximize value for properties including Cnn, Hbo Max, Tnt, and Food Network.
Cnn has navigated challenges including a sale to At&T, two terms under President Trump, a Biden administration often avoiding the press, and a merger with Discovery. These led to leadership changes, layoffs, and a shift toward digital audiences. Under former C.E.O. Jeff Zucker, Cnn generated $1 billion in profit with a crusading tone that boosted viewership. Subsequent leaders, including Chris Licht under Zaslav, sought to moderate this approach to attract conservative viewers, resulting in departures like Don Lemon and Poppy Harlow, and reduced profits to an expected $600 million in adjusted operating income.
Current leader Mark Thompson projects Cnn revenue at $1.8 billion in 2026, growing to $2.2 billion by 2030, driven by the $6.99-per-month Cnn All Access subscription aiming for $600 million by 2030 amid a -4% annual decline in core revenue.
Paramount's approach to Cbs News raises alarms. Under new editorial head Bari Weiss, who sold her Free Press to Paramount for a reported $150 million, the division faces criticism for management gaffes and a push toward digital despite stronger TV ad revenue. Staff complain of stories needing to fit preconceived slants. Anderson Cooper announced his departure from “60 Minutes” after 20 years, seen as a sign of dissatisfaction. Viewership for “Cbs Evening News,” anchored by Tony Dokoupil since January, averaged 4.17 million last week, down 10% year-over-year. “Cbs Mornings” drew 1.71 million, down 14%.
Analyst Blair Levin of New Street Research warned that Paramount's friendliness toward the Trump administration could pressure its broadcast licenses and deter talent, as it adjusts offerings to curry favor. Past talks of combining Cnn and Cbs News faltered partly due to unions at Cbs.
In a Thursday memo, Thompson urged calm: “Despite all the speculation you’ve read during this process, I’d suggest that you don’t jump to conclusions about the future until we know more.” He added, “Let’s continue to focus on delivering the best possible journalism to the millions of people who rely on us all around the world.” Staff worry new ownership will distract from this mission.
