Paramount Skydance Reorganizes Linear TV Business Under George Cheeks
In the wake of a significant round of layoffs, Paramount Skydance is restructuring its linear TV business under George Cheeks, the chair of TV media at Paramount. This reorganization brings cable outlets BET, Comedy Central, MTV, and Nickelodeon, among others, into Cheeks' purview within the TV Media division, alongside the broadcast network CBS.
Cheeks emphasized the enduring impact of these brands in a memo to staff: "These brands have entertained audiences and shaped culture for decades. While the industry has changed considerably, their brand identities and creative voices are meaningful and remain strong. Together, we will reimagine how we leverage their power across platforms in ways that reflect today’s audiences and tomorrow’s possibilities."
Laurel Weir, previously executive vp and head of programming, strategic insights, and research for Paramount Media Networks, will lead programming and global acquisitions for Paramount TV Media. Jules Borkent will oversee Nickelodeon Kids & Family's business and strategy, while Ashley Kaplan and Alec Botnick will lead Nickelodeon's animation studio. Ari Pearce takes the helm at Comedy Central, Sitarah Pendelton will oversee MTV's series and specials, and Jeannie Scalzo will collaborate with Weir on MTV's business side.
Trevor Rose moves from Paramount TV Studios to head talent and content strategy, and Nadja Webb will oversee music initiatives while maintaining her role in programming operations and business affairs for BET. This restructuring aims to reinvent and strengthen the brands, focusing on exceptional storytelling across entertainment, news, and sports, and driving revenue, viewership, and engagement across platforms.
Cheeks' memo highlights the importance of embracing new ideas and clarifying priorities, while being honest about what's not working. He encourages teams to share expertise and work together, emphasizing that success depends on mutual support and engagement with audiences. The leadership structure includes Bryon Rubin (COO & CFO), Mike Benson (Marketing), Allison Brightman and Jeeun Kim (Business Affairs), Whitney Delich (Human Resources), Chris Ender (Communications), Jeff Gerttula (Digital), Liz Miller (Production), Jeannie Scalzo (Brand Strategy & IP Monetization), Tiffany Smith-Anoa'i (Content Engagement & Partnerships), and Laurel Weir (Strategic Insights & Research).
As the company moves forward, Cheeks is working closely with the leadership team to refine the vision, priorities, and goals for the future. The focus is on building a stronger future rooted in storytelling, while celebrating franchises and seeking new ways to connect with audiences.
