Thompson stays atop CNN as Ellisons gain Warner Bros. Discovery control

Mark Thompson is to remain in his position as chairman of CNN amid broader management changes at Warner Bros. Discovery, the parent company announced. The decision comes as the Ellison family, through their investment vehicle, takes greater control of the entertainment and media group.

Thompson, who previously served as director-general of the BBC and chief executive of The New York Times, has held the CNN chairman role as the network navigated significant industry changes. His continued leadership signals stability for the news division despite the shifting ownership structure at the corporate level.

The Ellison family's increased stake in Warner Bros. Discovery represents a notable shift in the company's power structure. The development underscores ongoing consolidation and investment activity within the global media landscape, particularly among major entertainment corporations seeking to adapt to changing viewer preferences and streaming demands.

The changes reflect broader trends in the media industry as traditional broadcasters seek new ownership structures and leadership arrangements to remain competitive. Warner Bros. Discovery continues to operate one of the world's largest portfolios of television networks and streaming services, spanning news, entertainment, and sports content across multiple regions.