CNN CEO Mark Thompson in Talks to Stay After Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery Deal

CNN Chairman and CEO Mark Thompson is in early talks with Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison to remain in his role after Paramount completes its acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, according to people familiar with the matter. The Wall Street Journal first reported the discussions on October 1, 2026. A Paramount representative declined to comment. Retaining Thompson would ease concerns among CNN staff over the ownership change. Paramount's $111 million deal for Warner Bros. Discovery is proceeding after a judge approved a settlement ending an antitrust suit by California Attorney General Rob Bonta and 11 other state attorneys general. The settlement establishes an editorial oversight board monitoring editorial independence. If he stays, Thompson is expected to focus on cost reduction amid declining traditional TV audiences, while continuing to expand CNN's digital and streaming revenue operations.