Emotions are Irrelevant: The Transformation of Paramount in the Ellison Era

As the Paramount-Skydance merger approached its final stages, speculation swirled over which executives would remain. Among those who earned favor with Skydance CEO David Ellison was Ramsey Naito, head of Paramount Animation. Despite her ties to former Paramount Pictures CEO Brian Robbins and her role in bringing PAW Patrol to theaters, Naito seemed secure. The night before the merger finalized, reports noted her success with 2023s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, which grossed $182 million globally on a $30 million budget and boosted merchandise sales past $1 billion.

However, Naitos position quickly became precarious as Ellisons appointed executives began asserting authority. At a fall meeting, co-chairman Josh Greenstein reportedly criticized her for undervaluing the Turtles franchise, leaving Naito frustrated. The response she received echoed the Silicon Valley-inspired ethos Ellison favors: blunt, results-driven, and dismissive of personal feelings. Sources indicate this approach is reshaping Paramount, replacing a cautious, politically sensitive culture with one focused on direct feedback, cost efficiency, and a willingness to work with previously canceled talent.

Paramount insiders describe the new environment as unapologetically bold. Executives who had been sidelined elsewhere are now empowered to make impactful decisions. Naito eventually resigned amid the reshuffle and was succeeded by Jennifer Dodge, Spin Masters entertainment president.

Even before Ellisons takeover, signs of cultural change were visible. Paramount eliminated DEI policies and took stances counter to prevailing Hollywood narratives. Ellison has also supported male executives and creators previously marginalized, emphasizing commercial viability over conventional political correctness.

Key hires and acquisitions illustrate this philosophy. John Lasseter joined post-Disney, Will Smith secured a first-look deal despite past controversies, and Johnny Depp returned for a major studio project. Paramount president Jeff Shell and other leaders like Don Granger were recruited for their experience, resilience, and willingness to embrace challenging projects.

The studio is shifting toward action-driven, high-appeal films while scaling back awards-focused or niche content. Tentpole projects include a Call of Duty adaptation, a motocross film starring Timothe Chalamet, and a Western with Brandon Sklenar. Franchises such as Star Trek, Transformers, and World War Z are emphasized, alongside horror titles and R-rated comedies. Films perceived as less commercially promising, including Eloise and Winter Games, were canceled or sold to other platforms.

Animation remains a key focus. The Ninja Turtles franchise is being revitalized with Neal H. Moritz producing a live-action installment scheduled for November 17, 2028, while Paramount continues to support sequels and related projects despite TV spin-offs being canceled. The studio also maintains strong ties with creators like Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Kendrick Lamar for innovative projects.

Star relationships play a significant role in Ellisons strategy. Tom Cruise, initially at odds with Ellisons management over funding requests, has reconciled and is now moving forward with upcoming projects, including Top Gun 3 and a large-scale disaster film. Cruises collaboration reflects Ellisons broader ambition to acquire and transform major Hollywood assets, including potential expansion into Warner Bros.

Under David Ellison, Paramount is embracing a culture of calculated risk, commercial pragmatism, and decisive leadership. The studios transformation highlights a clear pivot from cautious, politically attuned operations to an assertive, profit-driven model that values influence, opportunity, and high-stakes projects.

Author: Maya Henderson