The Powers That Be: Daily Media Monday: The Jeff Shellscape & Ellison Leverage Math
Mar 9, 2026
They analyze Jeff Shell’s precarious position at Paramount Skydance amid a new legal probe. They unpack the Ellisons and Redbird’s ability to manage a massive $79 billion debt load. They track rising AI lobbying and political pitches in California. They translate corporate cost-cutting talk into likely real-world savings like contracts and real estate moves.
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Episode notes
Jeff Shell's Sidelined Role At Paramount Skydance
- Jeff Shell was hired as a veteran operator at Redbird/Paramount Skydance but appears sidelined into a consigliere role with no direct reports.
- Jon Kelly suggests legal/PR sensitivity and Ellison distance may have reduced Shell's operational authority despite his resume.
Barry Weiss Doubles Down On War Coverage
- Barry Weiss is leaning into international war coverage, which is restoring CBS News' strength in foreign reporting and lifting ratings.
- Hosts note CBS reactivated reporters and talent like Charlie Daggett and Tony DeCupol to cover Iran intensively.
Jerry Cardinal's Pitch To Avoid Mass Hollywood Layoffs
- Jerry Cardinal publicly argues many synergies are back-office and procurement changes rather than mass layoffs.
- Jon Kelly warns thousands will still likely lose jobs, but Jerry emphasizes software, contracts, and enterprise efficiencies.