Paramount Co-CEO Brian Robbins to Step Down Following Skydance Merger

Brian Robbins, who played a key role in growing Paramount+ streaming service, is stepping down as co-CEO of Paramount Global (PARA.O) after the completion of its merger with Skydance Media, according to a memo seen by Reuters on Wednesday. Skydance CEO David Ellison will assume leadership as chief executive once the merger closes by August 7.

In the memo, Robbins expressed confidence in Ellison and the incoming Skydance team, saying, “The company is in exceptionally capable hands.” Robbins joined Paramount in 2017 and was appointed co-CEO in April 2024 alongside George Cheeks and Chris McCarthy, collectively succeeding Bob Bakish.

Chris McCarthy’s departure was announced last month, while Cheeks will stay on as chair of media, overseeing Paramount’s broadcast and cable TV operations. Robbins previously served as CEO of Nickelodeon (2018) and became Paramount Pictures chief in 2021, overseeing 17 box office number one releases and franchises such as Sonic the Hedgehog, A Quiet Place, and Mission: Impossible.

Post-merger, the company is expected to be reorganized into three main segments: studios, direct-to-consumer, and TV media.