Shari Redstone hopes relationship with Trump will seal Paramount-Skydance deal: report

Core Viewpoint - The merger between Paramount and Skydance is anticipated to be influenced by the relationship between Paramount's Shari Redstone and President-elect Donald Trump, which may help navigate potential FCC issues and facilitate a successful deal closure by the first half of 2025 [4][10]. Company and Industry Summary - Shari Redstone, controlling Paramount through National Amusements, is set to receive $1.75 billion from the merger, while Skydance will assume National Amusements' financial obligations and cover Redstone's private jet lease and New York apartment expenses [2][4]. - Skydance has committed $4.5 billion to assist Paramount in buying out approximately 50% of its nonvoting shares, aiming to appease nonvoting investors [2]. - The merger combines Paramount's renowned studio and networks with Skydance's successful productions, including "Top Gun: Maverick" and "Jack Ryan," with plans for over $2 billion in cost cuts [6]. - Management changes are underway, with David Ellison and Jeff Shell leading the integration, and former Netflix executive Cindy Holland likely to oversee streaming operations [6][9]. - Despite the lawsuit from Trump against CBS regarding a "60 Minutes" interview, Redstone has expressed understanding of Trump's frustrations but does not support the lawsuit [7][8].