FCC, Paramount Start Talks Around Skydance Merger

Group 1 - The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Paramount are in discussions regarding the approval process for Paramount's sale to Skydance Media, which has been pending since last summer [1][3] - An initial concession from Paramount may involve the company refraining from Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts, which have been criticized by FCC Chairman Brendan Carr [2][5] - The merger agreement has been extended for an additional 90 days as it awaits regulatory review, indicating a rare sign of progress in the sale process [3] Group 2 - The FCC has authority over the transfer of broadcast licenses, which is relevant to CBS, a subsidiary of Paramount [4] - The FCC has initiated investigations into other media companies, including Disney and Comcast, regarding their DEI practices [4] - Paramount Global is reportedly engaged in settlement talks with former President Trump's legal team concerning a $20 billion lawsuit related to CBS News' editing of an interview, which may influence the merger approval process [6] Group 3 - The resignation of 60 Minutes executive producer Bill Owens highlights tensions within CBS News, attributed to corporate interference amid ongoing scrutiny from the Trump administration [7] - The show has consistently produced critical segments about the Trump administration, which has led to backlash from the former president [7]