Why did Paramount settle with Donald Trump?
Shari Redstone believed it was in Paramount’s best interest to settle in order to get the required approval for the merger with Skydance and avoid a potentially larger loss in court.
Media / Media News
Shari Redstone, former Paramount executive, has opened up about the controversial settlement between CBS and Donald Trump, as well as concerns surrounding a 2023 interview with Joe Biden. This comes amidst significant shifts in the media la...
## Redstone on CBS Settlement with Trump and Biden Interview
The recent acquisition of Paramount by Skydance has brought renewed attention to the media landscape and the decisions made by key players. Shari Redstone, the former controlling shareholder of Paramount, has provided insights into the controversial settlement with Donald Trump and concerns over a 2023 interview with Joe Biden.
### The Trump Settlement
Paramount settled a lawsuit with Donald Trump, who claimed CBS News edited a “60 Minutes” interview with Kamala Harris to help her win the 2024 election. While the case was considered weak, Redstone believed settling was in Paramount’s best interest to secure approval for the Skydance merger and avoid a potential $10 billion loss in court. The settlement cost Paramount $16 million.
### Concerns About Biden Interview
Redstone also revealed that CBS personnel told her President Biden appeared drowsy and had to be prompted during a 2023 interview with Scott Pelley. This raised concerns about how CBS would be perceived if it were accused of editing the interview to conceal any perceived failings. However, others who witnessed the interview suggested Redstone's worries were exaggerated.
### Nexstar's Acquisition of Tegna
In other media news, Nexstar is set to acquire Tegna for $6.2 billion, creating a local TV giant. The combined company would own 265 stations in 44 states, reaching 80% of U.S. television households. This consolidation raises concerns about the diversity of voices in local news.
### Shifts in Late-Night Television
The media landscape is also experiencing shifts in late-night television. CBS is reportedly getting out of the late-night business, while other networks are grappling with declining viewership and changing consumption habits. While traditional late-night viewership is declining, viral moments from these shows continue to gain traction on social media platforms.
Shari Redstone believed it was in Paramount’s best interest to settle in order to get the required approval for the merger with Skydance and avoid a potentially larger loss in court.
Redstone was concerned that CBS personnel told her that President Biden appeared drowsy during a 2023 interview, raising questions about potential editing to conceal any perceived failings.
The acquisition would create a local TV giant, owning 265 stations in 44 states and reaching 80% of U.S. television households, raising concerns about the diversity of voices in local news.
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