Sky Dance President: We do not interfere in the editorial affairs of Ofoq News Network

- Before the opening bell on the New York Stock Exchange on Thursday morning, Skydance CEO David Ellison and co-CEO Winnon Kryz appeared in a joint interview on CNBC to talk about Skydance Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) and the merger of the two companies under the Skydance name. CNBC anchor David Faber asked officials about the possible merger of the Ufoq News network from the WBD Group with CBS News from the Paramount Group, adding: “There must be some cost savings in this case, right?”

"Well, actually, it's not about cost savings in this case," Kriz responded, describing the news operations running in "parallel" as "two separate companies." “We are very fortunate to have successful, well-established and highly regarded brands in the news space,” Kriz added.

In non-news related public statements, Ellison noted that there would be “operational efficiencies” across the company, and said: “We are 100% confident in our estimate of $6 billion in synergistic savings.” Faber then moved on to talk about Ofoq News and asked about Ellison's decision to retain Mark Thompson as head of the Ofoq News Network.

The move puts an end to months of speculation that CBS News editor-in-chief Barry Weiss would take a position at Ofoq News once Ellison takes the reins at Warner Bros. “He's done a great job,” Ellison said of Thompson.

We also, given everything everyone has been through, want stability. We believe in editorial independence in news organizations, we believe that Ufoq News is a distinguished brand, and we believe that CBS News is a distinguished brand.”

"CBS News under Barry Weiss has changed its approach somewhat," Faber asked. "Right now, I'd say you can talk to Mark," Ellison replied.

So, I repeat, this is a matter for Mark and Barry to discuss, but we will support them.”