Skydance Tells FCC It Will Create CBS News Ombudsman, Eliminate DEI at Paramount
Skydance has told the Federal Communications Commission that once its acquisition of Paramount Global is complete, it will initiate a 'comprehensive review' of CBS to ensure that the network is operating in the public interest, and that it will hire an ombudsman that will report directly to the president of CBS News and 'who will receive and evaluate any complaints of bias or other concerns' at the news division.
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The ombudsman role will be guaranteed for at least two years, with CBS News leadership committing to 'carefully review' any complaints.
Skydance also promised to eliminate all diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives (DEI) at the company, writing in a letter, '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 made the commitments in a pair of letters to the FCC, with one focused on 'addressing concerns about media bias' and another 'to confirm the elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives that were in place at Paramount and to confirm our commitments moving forward.'
'Skydance, for its part, does not have DEI programs in place today and will not establish such initiatives,' the letter continues. '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.'
The DEI changes will impact the company's hiring practices, promotion and development, compensation, and public messaging, among other areas. It will also eliminate the office of global inclusion.
Skydance also committed to maintaining a 'productive partnership' with its CBS affiliates.
The pledges come as Skydance is seeking to secure FCC approval for the transfer of the CBS broadcast licenses, which is necessary to complete the Paramount Global transaction. The future of CBS News has been a hot topic in media circles, with the 60 Minutes settlement sparking outrage among many in the newsroom there.
Approval of the deal could come shortly, given the new commitments from Skydance.
President Trump has also said that Skydance has committed to about $20 million in PSAs or advertising that are supportive of causes important to him.
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