Skydance Threatens To Axe Paramount DEI And Install CBS News Ombudsman to Secure Merger

Skydance is planning some major changes at CBS and CBS News if its takeover of Paramount Global goes through. In a letter to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the company laid out what it plans to do once it takes control.

One of the first things Skydance says it will do is review how CBS is serving the public. It wants to make sure the network is acting in the public interest. Part of that plan includes hiring an ombudsman for CBS News.

This person will report directly to the president of CBS News and will handle any complaints about bias or other concerns. Skydance said the ombudsman role will be in place for at least two years, and CBS News leadership has agreed to “carefully review” any issues that come in.

In another big move, Skydance told the FCC it will eliminate all diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, commonly known as DEI, at Paramount.

In the letter, the company said, “The company is committed to ensuring that its storytelling reflects the many audiences and communities it serves in a manner that complies with non-discrimination requirements and other applicable laws.” Skydance added that it doesn’t currently have DEI programs and doesn’t plan to start any.

The removal of DEI efforts will affect how the company hires, promotes, and trains employees. It will also change the way it handles pay and public messaging. As part of this shift, the company will get rid of the office of global inclusion.

Skydance also said it wants to keep a good relationship with CBS affiliates, and it promised to work closely with them moving forward.

The letters sent to the FCC were meant to help move the merger process along. FCC approval is needed to transfer CBS’s broadcast licenses to Skydance. These commitments might help seal the deal soon.

One more detail that’s catching attention is that former President Donald Trump said Skydance has agreed to spend about $20 million on public service announcements or ads that support causes important to him.

The future of CBS News has already been a hot topic, especially after a recent controversy surrounding 60 Minutes. But with these new promises from Skydance, it looks like the company is doing what it can to smooth the way for the deal.

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