The CEO of newly merged Paramount Skydance Corp, David Ellison, has vowed to blend Hollywood storytelling with Silicon Valley innovation while he steered well clear of political controversies already surrounding the US$8.4 billion (A$13 billion) deal.

Speaking in New York just hours after the merger closed, Ellison said the company would be reorganised into three core units – Studios, Direct-to-Consumer, and TV Media – to speed decision-making and streamline operations.

Paramount+ and Pluto TV will be integrated onto a single technology platform within 18 months – a move aimed at saving costs and improving the user experience.

Ellison flagged virtual production, AI-assisted localisation and proprietary ad-tech as key tools to “amplify creativity, not replace it.”

Ellison also reaffirmed his support for CBS News, praising its “legacy of impactful journalism” and promising an ombudsman to address bias complaints – a condition of regulatory approval.

But the launch was overshadowed by political questions.

Reporters pressed Ellison over former US president Donald Trump’s claim that Skydance had promised US$20 million (A$31 million) in advertising airtime and other concessions linked to the merger’s approval. Ellison refused to confirm or deny the allegations, saying only, “We are not going to politicise anything today.”

Sports content will remain central to streaming retention at Paramount Skydance Corp, alongside heavy investment in premium original programming.

Former NBC Universal boss Jeff Shell joins as president, while CBS chief George Cheeks will continue to lead TV Media.

The deal marks the end of Shari Redstone’s control of Paramount, with her family’s National Amusements stake sold to Skydance, Larry Ellison and RedBird Capital for US$2.4 billion (A$3.71 billion). Redstone also departs the board with an additional US$180 million (A$278 million) severance package.

Industry watchers say Ellison’s challenge will be delivering on his “tech-forward” pledge while navigating intense scrutiny from regulators, political figures and an evolving streaming market.