David Ellison names Ynon Kreiz co-CEO of Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery
Paramount CEO David Ellison named outgoing Mattel chief Ynon Kreiz as co-CEO of the combined Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery.
Finance Reporter
LOS ANGELES — Paramount Chief Executive Officer David Ellison announced on Sept. 30, 2026, that outgoing Mattel leader Ynon Kreiz will assume the role of co-CEO of the anticipated corporate combination uniting Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery, according to a report published by CNBC Retail.
Strategic Context
The appointment pairs Ellison with Kreiz to helm the newly structured media giant following Kreiz's departure from toy manufacturer Mattel. The executive transition brings a veteran entertainment and consumer-goods operator into the leadership ranks of one of the industry's most significant upcoming consolidations. The transaction structure merges two major legacy studio libraries and distribution networks under a unified management team.
Forward Outlook
Operators, suppliers, and allocators tracking the merger will monitor subsequent regulatory filings and integration timelines as Ellison and Kreiz prepare to finalize the joint corporate structure. Further operational disclosures regarding studio oversight and combined balance sheet management are expected as the transaction advances toward completion.
Priya Nair
Finance Reporter
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