Ending DEI, clash over freedom of press: Inside the Paramount-Skydance merger
MSNBC·2025-07-25 21:30

Content Monitoring & Influence - Skydance explicitly promised the FCC to monitor content, particularly at CBS News [2] - The new owner will have someone inside CBS News to ensure content represents a full view of viewpoints and is ending all DEI programs [3] - The president allegedly wants more favorable coverage and cheered when Stephen Colbert was seemingly cancelled by CBS [5][6] Financial Implications & Content Value - South Park signed a $15 billion deal with Paramount for 50 new episodes and streaming of all 27 seasons [7] - South Park's economic value and status as a top 25 streaming show likely protect it from cancellation [10] - Despite White House criticism, Trump hasn't lashed out at South Park, possibly recognizing its broad appeal [10] License Transfer Conditions - Conditions on broadcast network license transfers exist, but the current situation is considered weaponized [4] - Sheri Redstone allowed the airing of a controversial South Park episode despite the deal's pending FCC approval [8][9]