Brief
George Cheeks outlines vision for new Skydance TV unit after $111 billion merger
Cheeks' email to TV staff follows the closing of the $111 billion Paramount‑Warner merger and names key divisions under his oversight.
By Felo News Desk · Published
George Cheeks, newly named co‑chair of Skydance TV and chief content officer, sent his first memo to television staff on Tuesday, hours after the $111 billion Paramount‑Warner Bros. Discovery merger officially closed.
What happened
In the email, Cheeks announced the formation of a Skydance Television group that combines Warner Bros. Television Studios, CBS Studios and Paramount Television Studios. He highlighted the continued operation of each studio, the integration of CBS Sports, TNT Sports and Warner Bros. Discovery Sports into a global sports portfolio, and the importance of CBS News and the 27 local CBS stations.
What the report adds
Variety reported that Cheeks did not detail a reporting structure, but industry understanding suggests divisional heads reporting to him will include Warner Bros. TV Group and U.S. networks chair Channing Dungey, CBS Studios president David Stapf and Paramount TV Studios head Matt Thunell. The memo also notes that JB Perrette, former WBD chief of global streaming and games, serves as Cheeks' co‑chair and chief business officer for both Skydance TV and the direct‑to‑consumer streaming division.
What was said
Cheeks wrote, “The work ahead is significant, and so is the opportunity. I am energized by the possibilities. Together, we’ll build on our collective strengths to create an even stronger future.” The memo thanked staff for “playing through the noise this past year” and expressed excitement about moving forward as one team.
How it came about
Cheeks' appointment follows his previous role as Paramount TV media chair and one of three co‑CEOs of Paramount Global. His elevation to Skydance TV co‑chair was confirmed by Skydance chairman David Ellison after the merger, which closed on 6 October 2026, creating a single owner for major TV brands including CBS and Warner Bros. Discovery assets.
Key facts
- George Cheeks was appointed co‑chair of Skydance TV and chief content officer. (variety.com)
- The memo was sent after the $111 billion Paramount‑Warner Bros. Discovery merger closed on 6 Oct 2026. (variety.com)
- Skydance TV will combine Warner Bros. Television Studios, CBS Studios and Paramount Television Studios under Cheeks' oversight. (variety.com)
- JB Perrette serves as co‑chair and chief business officer for Skydance TV and its streaming division. (variety.com)
Sources
- [1] variety.com — originally reported as “George Cheeks Addresses Staffers in First Memo as Skydance TV Co-Chair: ‘CBS Remains a Cornerstone’”
