Apple News In Conversation The billionaire tech heir trying to buy the movie industry — on his father’s dime
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Feb 12, 2026 Reeves Wiedeman, New York magazine features writer who profiled David Ellison, unpacks Hollywood’s consolidation drama. He explains why Ellison pursued big studio deals and how tech money is reshaping film and news power. The conversation covers financing, potential newsroom influence, and what massive mergers mean for viewers and industry workers.
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Consolidation Is Reshaping Hollywood
- Hollywood is consolidating as studios and streamers battle for libraries and subscribers.
- This reshapes what viewers watch, how they watch it, and how much they pay.
Flying Brought Father And Son Together
- David bonded with Larry Ellison through flying lessons starting at age 13 and became an accomplished aerobatic pilot.
- His mother's movie-watching habits seeded his love of films and a gentle personality colleagues note.
Early Acting Flop Led To Health Scare
- David Ellison acted in Flyboys, a $60 million film his father helped finance, but it bombed at the box office.
- The stress from the flop sent David to the hospital with heart-rhythm issues that weekend.