'Proud arm of fascist regime': Paramount's X account gets hacked
What's the story
The official X (formerly Twitter) account of Paramount Pictures was hacked on Tuesday (US time), with the bio reading: "Proud arm of the fascist regime." The momentary hack comes a day after David Ellison's Paramount Skydance announced a hostile takeover bid for Warner Bros. Discovery. This was three days after Netflix and WBD revealed their deal for WB's studios, HBO, HBO Max, and games divisions.
Industry turmoil
Hack coincided with Hollywood's corporate power struggle
The hack occurred amid a corporate power struggle in Hollywood, with major deals and shifts shaking up the industry. This incident adds another layer of complexity to an already tumultuous entertainment landscape. The breach was quickly reversed, with the account's bio reverting to its original message: "The official X account for Paramount Pictures."
Political ties
Trump's relationship with Ellison and media storm
American President Donald Trump has long been friendly with Ellison and his father, Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison. Trump publicly praised Ellison after Skydance's merger with Paramount earlier this year, saying he would do a great job as CEO of the merged entity. However, their relationship hit a snag this week when Trump criticized the new ownership of 60 Minutes for allowing an episode featuring Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene to air. Greene has recently turned into a Trump critic.
Editorial shift
Ellison's CBS News appointment raises eyebrows
In October, Ellison spent a reported $150 million to acquire Bari Weiss's The Free Press and appointed her as CBS News's top editorial executive. This move raised doubts across the industry, with many speculating it was intended to build bridges with conservative media circles, including Trump's base. Weiss will make her debut as CBS News editor-in-chief moderating a one-hour special featuring Charlie Kirk's widow, Erika Kirk (on behalf of their conservationist activist group, Turning Point USA).
Market impact
Trump's stance on Paramount Skydance's rival bid
When asked on Monday if he supports Paramount Skydance's rival bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, Trump was noncommittal. "I don't know enough about it," he told reporters, but noted he was watching how the competing deals may shift market power for Netflix and Paramount Skydance. "None of them are particularly great friends of mine," Trump added. "I want to do what's right."