David Ellison names leadership team for merged Skydance Corp media giant

Skydance confirmed its executive leadership team on October 5, 2026, ahead of officially closing the merger between Paramount and Warner Bros Discovery to form Skydance Corp. The Hollywood Reporter and Variety both reported that David Ellison will serve as chairman and chief executive officer of the combined entity. [1][2][3][7]

The executive suite combines leadership from both companies. The Hollywood Reporter reported that the leadership team includes Warner Bros Discovery insiders Casey Bloys, Mark Thompson, and streaming executive JB Perrette, alongside Paramount film chiefs Dana Goldberg and Josh Greenstein, and television executive George Cheeks. Variety added that former Mattel chief Ynon Kreiz joins as co-chief executive officer. [1][2][3][6]

The announcements coincided with the departure of Warner Bros Discovery chief executive David Zaslav. The Hollywood Reporter and Variety both reported that Zaslav sent a farewell video and email to employees on October 5 ahead of the transaction closing. Zaslav had led Warner Bros Discovery for four and a half years following its initial formation. [4][5]

The transaction forms a major multinational mass media and entertainment conglomerate scheduled to officially close on October 6, 2026. The new company is expected to be headquartered in New York City with major operational hubs located in Los Angeles and Atlanta. [3][7]