Observed Signal · Oct 2, 2026 · Market Signal · Source: MIA | Mercato Internazionale Audiovisivo · Impact: 2/5

Paramount-Warner Bros. Merger: Ynon Kreiz to Join David Ellison at the Helm of the New Group

Executive Signal Summary

New press release on the Paramount-Warner Bros. merger, with Ynon Kreiz joining as co-CEO. Also, the 12th edition of MIA presented with 630 projects and 85 international speakers.

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Primary Reporting: MIA | Mercato Internazionale Audiovisivo•Published: Oct 2, 2026

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M&ASep 30, 2026

David Ellison Adds Ynon Kreiz as Co-CEO for Paramount-WBD Merger

David Ellison, CEO of Paramount Global, announced that Ynon Kreiz, former CEO of Mattel, will join the combined Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery entity as co-CEO, effective at the expected closing next week. Kreiz will also join the board of directors. The $110 billion merger between Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery is set to complete soon. Ellison will focus on long-term strategy, while Kreiz will handle day-to-day management. Additionally, Cindy Holland, head of Paramount+, is exiting, and Casey Bloys, head of HBO, will lead streaming for the combined company.

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M&A / Corporate GovernanceOct 1, 2026

Paramount Appoints Mattel CEO as Co-CEO Ahead of Warner Acquisition

Paramount Global has appointed Ynon Kreiz, CEO of Mattel, as co-CEO alongside current CEO David Ellison, effective October 5, 2026. This appointment comes just before the completion of Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, expected to close on October 6, 2026. Kreiz will oversee day-to-day operations and the integration of the two studios, while Ellison will focus on strategy, creative direction, and technology. The merger, valued at over $110 billion, is expected to result in thousands of job cuts, with projected annual synergies of $6 billion within three years. Kreiz previously led a turnaround at Mattel, including job reductions, and is known for orchestrating the successful 'Barbie' movie. The deal faced legal challenges from several states, which were resolved after Paramount committed to increased U.S. production spending and retaining both Los Angeles studio lots. The merger has also raised concerns about CNN's editorial independence given the Ellison family's political ties.

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Done Deal: Paramount Completes Warner Bros. Takeover, Creating Hollywood Giant

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