Key facts
- Mark Thompson will remain chairman and editor-in-chief of CNN.
- Bari Weiss will remain CBS News' top editor.
- Skydance, led by David Ellison, is the new owner of CNN following Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery.
- Thompson expressed confidence in Skydance leadership's support for CNN's independent news principles.
- An independent editorial board will monitor editorial principles at both CNN and CBS News.
CNN leader Mark Thompson is staying on at the news network under the new ownership of Skydance, led by David Ellison. Skydance confirmed that Thompson, who has led CNN since October 2023, will retain his title as chairman and editor-in-chief. Bari Weiss, who was hired as CBS News' top editor last October, will also remain in her position.
Thompson informed CNN staffers in a memo that he believes Skydance leadership understands and will support the network's commitment to independent news. He noted that the leadership has shown enthusiasm for CNN's digital strategy. The acquisition by Paramount of Warner Bros. Discovery, which is expected to close soon, will bring CNN and CBS News under common ownership, along with other media assets.