Skydance Set to Scrap DEI, Add CBS News Watchdog in Bold Anti-Woke Paramount Overhaul

Skydance is making big promises as it gets ready to take over Paramount Global, and those changes will hit CBS and CBS News first.

In letters sent to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Skydance laid out its plans, and they include removing all DEI programs and hiring a news ombudsman to watch for bias.

According to Skydance, once the deal goes through, the company will start a full review of CBS to make sure it’s serving the public the way it’s supposed to. One key part of that plan is adding an ombudsman at CBS News.

This person will report directly to the president of CBS News and will be in charge of handling any complaints about bias or other concerns in how the news division operates. Skydance said the role will be in place for at least two years. CBS News leaders agreed they will “carefully review” all complaints that come in.

Skydance also told the FCC it will completely remove diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts from Paramount. That includes hiring programs, how promotions are handled, how people are paid, and even public messaging. The company said in a letter, “The company is committed to ensuring that its storytelling reflects the many audiences and communities it serves in a manner that complies with non-discrimination requirements and other applicable laws.”

Skydance pointed out that it doesn’t currently have any DEI programs and doesn’t plan to start any. The company also confirmed that the office of global inclusion will be shut down. These promises were made in two letters sent to the FCC, one focused on media bias and the other confirming that DEI programs will be removed.

Skydance said it still wants a good working relationship with CBS affiliates and will keep that partnership going strong.

The reason for these letters is simple: Skydance wants the FCC to sign off on the transfer of CBS’s broadcast licenses. That approval is required to close the Paramount Global deal. With these bold commitments, Skydance is hoping to speed up the process.

There’s also a political angle. Former President Donald Trump said Skydance has agreed to put around $20 million into public service ads or advertising for causes he supports.

The future of CBS News has already been a topic of debate, especially after the controversy surrounding 60 Minutes. With Skydance stepping in, even bigger changes seem to be right around the corner.

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