David Ellison names the combined Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery media giant Skydance ahead of merger closing
From the Newshound archive · first published 2 October 2026 · last updated 3 October 2026.
David Ellison announced the merged company will operate under the Skydance name, retaining Paramount and Warner Bros as distinct studios beneath the new corporate umbrella.
David Ellison revealed on Friday that the merged Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery entity will carry the name Skydance, with both studio brands retained beneath the new corporate structure. Ellison made the announcement on social media, calling the combined company a "creative-first home for bold, quality storytelling" and stressing that neither legacy brand would be eclipsed. The news arrives fewer than two weeks after Paramount reached a settlement with state attorneys general over an antitrust lawsuit that had aimed to block the $110 billion merger.
Ellison said the name was chosen to give the combined company its own identity 'while allowing Paramount and Warner Bros. to remain in the spotlight.'
Ynon Kreiz, stepping down as Mattel chief executive, was named co-CEO earlier this week, with responsibility for day-to-day operations while Ellison concentrates on long-term strategy and creative vision.
