The Federal Communications Commission just cleared the path for David Ellison and his billionaire father Larry’s $8 billion takeover of Paramount Global. This merger brings Silicon Valley money and tech know-how to old Hollywood—packed with potential. DavidEllipse UID’s Skydance swallowed a media giant that’s been around since the early 1900s. It’s a bold play by these conservative-leaning tech giants to reshape American entertainment.
David Ellison built trust with Paramount over 15 years as a movie producer. His dad Larry—even wealthier than Elon Musk—lent his political clout. The deal faced serious blocks—one from former President Trump’s lawsuit over an edited 60 Minutes interview. Paramount coughed up $16 million to settle and avoid more trouble. Critics call the lawsuit “frivolous,” but deal supporters say it was smart.
Trump wanted more than cash—he demanded $20 million in free PSAs and programming. Skydance and Paramount agreed, showing how politics shapes business. The FCC finally signed off, letting Larry Ellison’s family control Paramount’s TV stations. This keeps the licenses away from left-leaning networks, aligning with conservative media goals.
Hollywood’s elites split on the deal. James Cameron and some writers warned it might crush competition and diversity. But others like Mark Wahlberg cheered, saying Skydance will “win for the industry.” Conservatives might findochastic—the marriage of big tech and Hollywood feels uneasy, but supporters say it brings innovation.
Regulators dragged their feet for months. Extensions pushed the deadline to October, testing the Ellisons’ patience. The SEC and Europe already approved it, but the FCC made them wait. Now closed August 7th, proving persistence in big deals. But some fear worse consolidation—what if giants like Amazon or Apple join?
Oracle—a company tied to Larry Ellison—might soon ink a $100 million-a-year deal with Skydance. It’s a smart move: pairing Silicon Valley’s cloud power with Paramount’s content. Conservatives root for this union, seeing it as a way to counter left-wing media.
Future deals could face tougher scrutiny. The FTC and DOJ might copy Trump’s “transaction tax” tactics. But Skydance plans to expand, eyeing studios, streamers, or cable networks. Success depends on dodging woke corporate agendas and ramping up quality content.
This battle’s not over. Liberals griped about media consolidation, but conservatives see it as a much-needed shake-up. If the Ellisons cut costs, boost jobs, and create hit shows—this deal could look like a masterstroke. For now, Americans wait to see if billions think tank’s they can save Hollywood’s golden age studios.
