Get ready for a shakeup in the world of cable TV! The recent leadership changes at Paramount Skydance have everyone talking.
After a wave of layoffs, George Cheeks, TV Media chair, unveiled a new structure for the company's cable brands. Cheeks wants to "reinvent and strengthen" these iconic brands, focusing on exceptional storytelling across entertainment, news, and sports.
But here's where it gets controversial... Prior to the Skydance takeover, Paramount's cable TV business was led by Chris McCarthy, who was also one of Paramount Global's co-CEOs. With the Skydance deal closed, McCarthy has left the company, and a new leadership team is stepping in.
Under the new Paramount Skydance structure, Laurel Weir takes the helm, leading programming for multiple brands, including MTV, Comedy Central, and Nickelodeon. Weir's previous role was EVP/head of programming and strategic insights for Paramount Media Networks, so she brings a wealth of experience to the table.
At MTV, Jeannie Scalzo, formerly EVP of brand partnerships, will partner with Weir to lead the business. Sitarah Pendelton, previously EVP of unscripted series at Paramount Media Networks and Paramount+, will oversee all MTV series and specials, including the iconic RuPaul's Drag Race.
Nickelodeon's business and strategy will be overseen by Jules Borkent, formerly VP of programming at Nickelodeon International. Ashley Kaplan and Alec Botnick will lead the animation studio, developing new content for digital, TV, and streaming platforms, and expanding across CBS, Comedy Central, and MTV brands.
Comedy Central will be led by Ari Pearce, former SVP of original programming and development. With a focus on new comedy development and hit series like South Park and The Daily Show, Pearce is set to make an impact.
And this is the part most people miss... Cheeks' memo didn't mention who will oversee other Paramount cable networks like VH1, TV Land, and Logo TV. There's also no word on the exit of Taylor Sheridan to NBCUniversal, who produced hits like Yellowstone and its spinoffs for Paramount.
Going forward, Paramount Skydance plans to "lean into" popular franchises like SpongeBob SquarePants, Paw Patrol, and The Ms. Pat Show, while continuing to develop new intellectual property and connect with audiences. It's a delicate balance between celebrating legacy brands and embracing new ideas.
In another change, Janice Gatti, formerly head of Paramount international communications, will oversee PR and communications for TV Media, joined by Ashley Priest. This comes after Liza Burnett Fefferman exited her role as head of communications for Paramount Media Networks and Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios.
Last week, Matt Thunell, head of Paramount TV Studios, announced a restructuring of his leadership team amid the mass layoffs. It's a time of transition and transformation for the company.
Cheeks' full memo outlines the vision for the newly aligned TV Media division, emphasizing the need to clarify priorities, be intentional, and rethink legacy processes. It's a call to action for the team to work together and embrace new ideas.
The new leadership structure for Paramount's cable brands is as follows:
- Laurel Weir: Leads programming for multiple brands and oversees the Global Programming Acquisitions Group.
- Nickelodeon: Jules Borkent oversees business and strategy, while Ashley Kaplan and Alec Botnick lead the animation studio.
- Comedy Central: Ari Pearce takes the lead, focusing on new comedy development.
- MTV: Sitarah Pendelton oversees series and specials, and Jeannie Scalzo partners with Weir to lead the business.
- Trevor Rose: Leads talent and content strategy across cable brands.
- Nadja Webb: Oversees all music initiatives and maintains oversight of Programming Operation and Business Affairs for BET.
The cross-divisional TV Media leads supporting all broadcast, studios, and cable businesses include Bryon Rubin, Mike Benson, Allison Brightman, Jeeun Kim, Whitney Delich, Chris Ender, Jeff Gerttula, Liz Miller, Jeannie Scalzo, Tiffany Smith-Anoa'i, and Laurel Weir.
Cheeks is working closely with the leadership team to refine their vision and goals for the future. It's an exciting time for Paramount Skydance, as they navigate the changing landscape of TV media and strive to shape what's next.
What are your thoughts on these leadership changes? Do you think Paramount Skydance is on the right track with their focus on iconic brands and new IP development? We'd love to hear your opinions in the comments!
