Brian Robbins is stepping down from his role as co-CEO of Paramount Global amid the company’s merger with Skydance Media. His exit comes just days before the deal is expected to close, marking a significant leadership transition as the entertainment giant undergoes a sweeping reorganization.
Robbins, who joined Paramount in 2017 and rose through leadership roles at Nickelodeon and Paramount Pictures, was named co-CEO in April 2024 following the departure of Bob Bakish. In a memo to staff, he described his tenure as one of the greatest privileges of his life, reflecting on his journey from filmmaker to studio chief.
With the merger set to finalize, David Ellison, CEO of Skydance, will take over leadership of the combined entity. The newly formed company will operate under a three-division structure, comprising studios, direct-to-consumer streaming, and television media operations.
George Cheeks, Robbins’ fellow co-CEO, is expected to remain with the company, assuming leadership of the division overseeing CBS and other television assets. Chris McCarthy’s role is also being reevaluated in the shuffle.
Robbins’ departure marks the end of an era for Paramount as the company prepares for a new chapter under Ellison’s vision. The merger aims to revitalize Paramount’s position in a rapidly evolving media landscape, with strategic emphasis on streaming, content production, and global expansion.
