Skydance has officially responded to inquiries from a group of Senate Democrats, asserting its compliance with anti-bribery laws during its acquisition of Paramount Global.
Skydance Responds to Senate Inquiries on Anti-Bribery Compliance
Skydance has officially responded to inquiries from a group of Senate Democrats, asserting its compliance with anti-bribery laws during its acquisition of Paramount Global.
Compliance with Anti-Bribery Laws
In a letter addressed to Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Ron Wyden (D-OR), Skydance General Counsel Stephanie Kyoko McKinnon 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.”
Concerns Raised by Senators
Earlier this month, the senators highlighted concerns regarding the legality of offering anything of value to federal officials to influence official acts. They referenced President Donald Trump’s assertion that Paramount Global’s $16 million settlement with CBS included an additional $16 million in public service advertising commitments, with expectations of a higher figure from the new owners.
Response to Allegations
McKinnon clarified that Skydance was neither involved in the lawsuit nor in Paramount’s settlement with the president. She explained that the merger agreement allowed Paramount to settle any litigation unrelated to the transaction for up to $50 million without Skydance’s consent, although Paramount did seek Skydance’s approval for certain settlement terms.
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Settlement and Cancellation of CBS Show
In October, Trump filed a lawsuit against CBS News concerning an edited interview with Kamala Harris, which resulted in a settlement just weeks before the FCC approved the merger. Skydance also addressed inquiries regarding CBS’s cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, stating that the decision was made independently by Paramount.
Public Interest and Commitment to Journalism
In her letter, McKinnon emphasized the public interest benefits of the acquisition, including revitalizing CBS and its local stations. Skydance committed to appointing an ombudsman in the news division to ensure unbiased journalism and diverse viewpoints, countering any claims of undue influence in editorial decisions.
Source: deadline.com
