Ellison Names Kreiz Co-CEO of Merged Paramount-WBD
David Ellison announced Ynon Kreiz as Co-CEO of the anticipated merged Paramount-WBD company, effective at closing, minutes after a federal judge approved an antitrust settlement.
David Ellison announced on Wednesday that Ynon Kreiz will serve as Co-CEO of the anticipated merged Paramount-WBD company, effective at closing. The announcement came minutes after a federal judge approved the antitrust settlement between Paramount, Warner Bros. Discovery and a dozen blue state attorneys general.
In the co-CEO structure, Ellison will focus on long-term strategy, creative vision, talent relationships, strategic partnerships, technology and capital allocation. Kreiz will focus on day-to-day management and integration of the combined businesses.
Kreiz recently departed from his position at Mattel. In October 2025, he was tapped for a top job at Paramount-WBD, though the co-CEO role was not initially expected, according to Deadline.
Kreiz helped shepherd Barbie to billion-dollar-plus big-screen success at Warner Bros in 2023. David Ellison took over Paramount last year. Jeff Shell flamed out this spring after a tenure at Paramount.
Quick answers
Who will be Co-CEO of the merged Paramount-WBD company?
Ynon Kreiz will serve as Co-CEO, effective at closing, alongside David Ellison.
What will David Ellison focus on as Co-CEO?
Ellison will focus on long-term strategy, creative vision, talent relationships, strategic partnerships, technology and capital allocation.
What will Ynon Kreiz focus on as Co-CEO?
Kreiz will focus on day-to-day management and integration of the combined businesses.