Paramount Skydance Reorganizes TV Business Under George Cheeks

The reorganization at Paramount Skydance is continuing. Just a week after meaningful layoffs, the company is restructuring its linear TV business, placing it under the leadership of George Cheeks, chair of TV media at Paramount.

This change adds key cable outlets – BET, Comedy Central, MTV, and Nickelodeon – to Cheeks’ existing portfolio within the TV Media division, alongside the broadcast network CBS. It’s a substantial shift in how Paramount manages its television properties.

“These brands have entertained audiences and shaped culture for decades,” Cheeks wrote in a memo to staff on Tuesday. “While the industry has changed considerably, their brand identities and creative voices are meaningful and remain strong. Together, we will reimagine how we leverage their power across platforms in ways that reflect today’s audiences and tomorrow’s possibilities.”

Several key leadership changes are also taking effect. Laurel Weir, formerly executive vp and head of programming, strategic insights and research for Paramount media Networks, will now lead programming and global acquisitions for Paramount TV Media. Jules Borkent will head Nickelodeon Kids & Family’s business and strategy, while Ashley Kaplan and Alec Botnick will continue to lead Nick’s animation studio.

Ari pearce will take the helm at Comedy Central, bringing experience from his previous role as senior vp programming and growth at the channel. Sitarah Pendleton will oversee MTV’s series and specials,and Jeannie Scalzo will partner with Weir to manage MTV’s business operations. Trevor Rose is moving from Paramount TV Studios as head of talent and content strategy, and Nadja webb will oversee music initiatives while continuing to lead programming operation and business affairs for BET.

Here’s the full text of Cheeks’ memo to staff:

Team,

Thank you for your resilience during this difficult time of conversion.Saying goodbye to valued colleagues is never easy, and your continued commitment speaks volumes.As we move forward, I want to share our vision for the newly aligned TV Media division – a power