Today in Focus Move over Murdochs, here come the Ellisons
Apr 6, 2026
Margaret Sullivan, media columnist and former Washington Post media critic, unpacks the Ellison family's surge into US news ownership. She maps Larry and David Ellison's backgrounds and rise. Conversations cover CBS News changes, high-profile legal battles, potential CNN takeover and wider implications for editorial independence and political influence.
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David's Rise From Nepo Baby To Studio CEO
- David Ellison started as a nepotism-criticised actor then found success producing Top Gun Maverick.
- Larry later bought Paramount Studios, which included CBS News, placing David as CEO and raising questions about editorial influence.
Wealth And Trumpy Politics Shape Ellison Moves
- Larry Ellison made his fortune with Oracle and is consistently among the world's richest people.
- He is politically aligned with Donald Trump, which shapes perceptions of his media acquisitions.
CBS Settlement Came During Ellison Paramount Deal
- Trump sued CBS News over an edited 60 Minutes segment and CBS settled for $16 million.
- The settlement occurred while the Ellisons were acquiring Paramount, prompting claims the payout eased regulatory or political friction.