Skydance Tells Senators It Wasn’t Involved in Colbert ‘Late Show’ Cancellation, Complied With Anti-Bribery Laws in Paramount Deal

Skydance Media Addresses Concerns Raised by U.S. Senators

Skydance Media recently responded to inquiries from three left-wing U.S. senators regarding concerns about potential “bribery” in connection with the Trump administration’s approval of its acquisition of Paramount Global. The senators, Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders, and Ron Wyden, had raised questions about Skydance’s involvement in the cancellation of “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert.”

In a letter dated July 21 addressed to Skydance CEO David Ellison, the senators posed several direct questions about the Paramount deal. They inquired whether there were any arrangements for Skydance to provide compensation or promotional activities benefiting President Trump, his family, his presidential library, or other Administration officials. Additionally, the senators asked whether Skydance executives were involved in discussions regarding the cancellation of “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.”

In response to the senators’ letter, Stephanie Kyoko McKinnon, Skydance’s general counsel and co-president of business operations, stated, “Throughout its history and during the review of the proposed acquisition of Paramount, Skydance has fully complied with all applicable laws, including our nation’s anti-bribery laws.”

McKinnon clarified that Skydance was not involved in CBS’s decision to cancel “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.” She explained that Paramount informed Skydance about the show’s cancellation only after making an independent decision, noting that CBS cited financial reasons for ending Colbert’s show.

The senators also referenced President Trump’s claim of a supposed side deal with Skydance, in which the merged company was expected to contribute $20 million in advertising, public service announcements, or similar programming. Additionally, Paramount had agreed to pay $16 million to settle Trump’s lawsuit against “60 Minutes” for alleged deceptive editing.

McKinnon did not directly address the alleged side deal with the president in her response. She clarified that Skydance was not party to the lawsuit or Paramount’s settlement with Trump. She elaborated on the transaction agreement, stating that Paramount had the authority to settle litigation unrelated to the merger for up to $50 million without Skydance’s consent.

McKinnon emphasized that Skydance executives had routine interactions with government officials during the regulatory approval process, including meetings with the Administration, Congress, and federal regulators. She expressed a commitment to maintaining positive relationships with government entities moving forward.

As Skydance continues to navigate the regulatory landscape and strengthen its position in the industry, the company remains dedicated to upholding legal compliance and fostering productive relationships with government stakeholders.