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Skydance Media
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The evolution of Paramount Skydance
Year Event
1886 Westinghouse Electric Corporation is founded as Westinghouse Electric & Manufacturing Company
1912 Famous Players Film Company is founded
1913 Lasky Feature Play Company is founded
1914 Paramount Pictures is founded
1916 Famous Players and Lasky merge as Famous Players–Lasky and acquire Paramount
1927 Famous Players–Lasky is renamed to Paramount Famous Lasky Corporation; CBS is founded with investment from Columbia Records
1929 Paramount acquires 49% of CBS
1930 Paramount Famous Lasky Corporation is renamed to Paramount Publix Corporation
1932 Paramount sells back its shares of CBS
1934 Gulf+Western is founded as the Michigan Bumper Corporation
1935 Paramount Publix Corporation is renamed to Paramount Pictures
1936 National Amusements is founded as Northeast Theater Corporation
1938 CBS acquires Columbia Records
1950 Desilu is founded and CBS distributes its television programs
1952 CBS creates the CBS Television Film Sales division
1958 CBS Television Film Sales is renamed to CBS Films
1966 Gulf+Western acquires Paramount
1967 Gulf+Western acquires Desilu and renames it Paramount Television (now CBS Studios)
1968 CBS Films is renamed to CBS Enterprises
1970 CBS Enterprises is renamed to Viacom
1971 Viacom is spun off from CBS
1987 National Amusements acquires Viacom
1988 CBS sells Columbia Records to Sony
1989 Gulf+Western is renamed to Paramount Communications
1994 Viacom acquires Paramount Communications
1995 Paramount Television and United Television launch UPN; Westinghouse acquires CBS
1997 Westinghouse is renamed to CBS Corporation
2000 Viacom acquires UPN and CBS Corporation
2005 Viacom splits into the second CBS Corporation and Viacom
2006 Skydance Media is founded as Skydance Productions; CBS Corporation shuts down UPN and replaces it with The CW
2009 Paramount and Skydance enter an agreement to co-produce and co-finance films
2017 CBS Corporation sells CBS Radio to Entercom (now Audacy)
2019 CBS Corporation and Viacom re-merge as ViacomCBS
2022 ViacomCBS is renamed to Paramount Global
2025 Skydance acquires National Amusements and merges with Paramount Global as Paramount Skydance

Key Information

Skydance Media, LLC (formerly known as Skydance Productions from 2006 to 2016) was an American media production and finance company based in Santa Monica, California. Founded by David Ellison on April 4, 2006, the company specialized in films, animation, television, video games, and sports.

In 2009, the company entered a five-year partnership to co-produce and co-finance films with Paramount Pictures. This agreement was renewed twice, extending to 2021. On July 7, 2024, Skydance announced its intent to merge with Paramount Global in an $8 billion transaction, under an agreement in which Skydance would acquire Paramount's controlling shareholder National Amusements, and then perform an all-stock merger with the company. On July 24, 2025, the merger was approved by the FCC,[3] and the merger was closed on August 7, 2025, forming Paramount Skydance.[4][5]

History

[edit]

Formation

[edit]
Logo from 2016 to 2020

Skydance Productions was formed in 2006 by David Ellison, son of Larry Ellison, co-founder and then-CEO of the Oracle Corporation. Ellison, a pilot, had an interest in aviation and took inspiration for the company name from flying aerobatics known as "skydancing". The firm's first film was Flyboys in 2006; it starred Ellison and was co-financed with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer.[6]

In the fall of 2009, Skydance and Paramount Pictures signed a five-year co-financing, production and distribution agreement, with Paramount holding an additional option of distribution. Before August 2010, Skydance hired Dana Goldberg, formerly of Village Roadshow Pictures, to oversee development and production as chief creative officer. In August 2010, with the Paramount partnership and an equity investment by Larry Ellison, who was then the sixth richest person in the world, Skydance raised $350 million in equity and credit to co-finance its films.[6]

On October 25, 2011, Skydance tried to sign its own first production client with Alex Kurtzman and the late Roberto Orci of K/O Paper Products, but the deal never materialized.[7]

Expansion

[edit]

On May 1, 2013, Skydance launched Skydance Television, hiring Marcy Ross as division president.[8] In 2014, Jesse Sisgold joined Skydance, titled President of Business Affairs & Strategic Planning;[9] later that year he was promoted to chief operating officer (COO).[10] In 2017, he was promoted to president, while continuing as COO.[11] In March 2014, Don Granger joined the company as executive vice president of Feature Productions, a newly created position, reporting to Goldberg.[12] In March 2015, Anne Globe joined the company as chief marketing officer.[13]

Later in 2015, Skydance raised $700 million in new financing, consisting of $200 million in equity from a group of investors and a $500 million line of credit from J.P. Morgan Chase.[14] Skydance renewed its slate deal with Paramount in the summer of 2013 for four more years.[14]

On May 3, 2016, Skydance launched the Skydance Interactive division following the acquisition of The Workshop Entertainment and announced in January 2017 for a new story-driven virtual reality game titled Archangel.[15] Skydance also created a production label named Uncharted in December 2016 to house content which falls outside of the action, sci-fi, or fantasy genres.[16] It was also in 2016 that Skydance Productions re-branded to "Skydance Media".

On March 16, 2017, Skydance launched the Skydance Animation division by forming a multi-year partnership with Madrid-based Ilion Animation Studios.[17] In August 2017, Skydance and Paramount renewed their slate deal for another four years to 2021, with the addition of Skydance's animated films for distribution.[18]

On January 25, 2018, Tencent bought a 5% to 10% minority stake.[1][19] Jun Oh was hired by Skydance Media as head of theatrical, interactive and legal affairs in October 2018.[20] In February 2020, RedBird Capital Partners and CJ ENM invested in the company.[21] In April 2020, Skydance Media named veteran entertainment executive Stephanie Kyoko McKinnon to the newly created post of general counsel.[22] On October 20, 2021, Skydance announced Skydance Sports, a new division led by Jon Weinbach that would produce sports-themed content.[23]

In January 2022, Skydance reached a non-exclusive multi-year first-look deal with Apple Original Films for a slate of live-action films. Variety reported that the agreement called for two films per-year at a budget of at least $125 million each, and Skydance receiving a payout of at least $25 million per-film. Skydance would also retain the intellectual property rights to the films produced under the agreement, and would still be allowed to work with other distributors.[24][25]

On October 13, 2022, Skydance completed a $400 million strategic investment round which was led by KKR, a first-time investor, and joined by the Ellison family who are majority shareholders.[26] By April 13, 2023, Skydance Media backed a new venture from country star Tim McGraw based in Nashville called "Down Home"; with two scripted series in development, along with plans on features and animation to follow.[27] On July 7, Skydance brought a new $1 billion credit facility, giving the film and television studio enhanced flexibility to invest in its business lines.[28]

Merger with Paramount Global

[edit]

In January 2024, it was reported that David Ellison was interested in buying Paramount Global's parent company National Amusements from Shari Redstone.[29] Skydance held exclusive talks with Paramount on a merger, but the window expired with no deal in place. An independent committee representing Paramount would go on to recommend a revised offer from Ellison that would see Skydance purchase National Amusements for $2 billion.[30] In June 2024, CNBC reported that Skydance and Paramount agreed to terms on a merger,[31] which was awaiting approval from National Amusements.[32]

After it was reported on June 11 that merger talks had fallen apart,[33][34] negotiations between the two were reported to have restarted on July 2, and Skydance was reported to have reached a preliminary agreement.[35][36] On July 7, Ellison officially announced his intent for Skydance to take over Paramount Global in an $8 billion deal, after having received approval from a special board committee. The deal will be structured so that a group of investors from Skydance will pay $2.4 billion in cash to purchase National Amusements, and Paramount Global will pay its Class A and Class B stockholders $4.5 billion in cash and shares. Paramount would add $1.5 billion in primary capital to its balance sheet. The second phase will see an all-stock merger between Skydance Media and Paramount, valued at $4.75 billion. Paramount Global would have 45 days to look for better or matching offers from other bidders before finalizing.[37][38][39]

On July 24, 2025, the FCC approved the acquisition of Paramount.[40] The merger closed on August 7, 2025.[41][42]

After Skydance Media merged with National Amusements and Paramount Global to form Paramount Skydance on August 7, 2025, David Ellison now serves as the founder, owner, chairman and CEO of Paramount Skydance.

Filmography

[edit]

Feature films

[edit]

Released

[edit]
Release Title Co-production companies Distributor(s)
as Skydance Productions
September 22, 2006 Flyboys Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Ingenious Media and Electric Entertainment MGM Distribution Co.
December 22, 2010 True Grit Mike Zoss Productions and Scott Rudin Productions Paramount Pictures
December 16, 2011 Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol Bad Robot and TC Productions
December 19, 2012 The Guilt Trip Michaels/Goldwyn
December 21, 2012 Jack Reacher TC Productions
March 28, 2013 G.I. Joe: Retaliation Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Hasbro Studios and Di Bonaventura Pictures
May 15, 2013 Star Trek Into Darkness Bad Robot and K/O Paper Products
June 21, 2013 World War Z Hemisphere Media Capital, Plan B Entertainment and GK Films
January 17, 2014 Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit Di Bonaventura Pictures and Mace Neufeld Productions
July 1, 2015 Terminator Genisys Annapurna Pictures
July 31, 2015 Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation Bad Robot, Alibaba Pictures, China Movie Channel and TC Productions
as Skydance
July 22, 2016 Star Trek Beyond Alibaba Pictures, Huahua Media, Bad Robot, Sneaky Shark Productions and Perfect Storm Entertainment Paramount Pictures
October 21, 2016 Jack Reacher: Never Go Back TC Productions, Shanghai Film Group and Huahua Media
March 24, 2017 Life Columbia Pictures and Mockingbird Pictures Sony Pictures Releasing
May 25, 2017 Baywatch under Uncharted; Shanghai Film Group, Huahua Media, Seven Bucks Productions, The Montecito Picture Company, Fremantle Productions and Flynn Picture Company Paramount Pictures
October 20, 2017 Geostorm Electric Entertainment and RatPac-Dune Entertainment Warner Bros. Pictures
February 23, 2018 Annihilation Scott Rudin Productions and DNA Films Paramount Pictures
(U.S. and Chinese distribution)
Netflix
(International distribution)
July 27, 2018 Mission: Impossible – Fallout Alibaba Pictures, Bad Robot and TC Productions Paramount Pictures
October 11, 2019 Gemini Man Alibaba Pictures, Fosun Pictures and Jerry Bruckheimer Films
November 1, 2019 Terminator: Dark Fate Tencent Pictures, TSG Entertainment and Lightstorm Entertainment Paramount Pictures
(U.S. distribution)
Buena Vista International
(International distribution under 20th Century Fox name)
December 13, 2019 6 Underground Bay Films Netflix
July 10, 2020 The Old Guard Denver and Delilah Productions and Marc Evans Productions
April 30, 2021 Without Remorse Paramount Pictures, New Republic Pictures, Weed Road Pictures, Outlier Society and Midnight Radio Productions Amazon Studios
July 2, 2021 The Tomorrow War Paramount Pictures and New Republic Pictures
July 23, 2021 Snake Eyes Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Entertainment One and Di Bonaventura Pictures Paramount Pictures
March 11, 2022 The Adam Project 21 Laps Entertainment and Maximum Effort Netflix
May 27, 2022 Top Gun: Maverick Don Simpson/Jerry Bruckheimer Films and TC Productions Paramount Pictures
August 5, 2022 Luck under Skydance Animation; Apple Original Films Apple TV+
September 30, 2022 The Greatest Beer Run Ever Apple Original Films and Living Films
April 5, 2023 Air under Skydance Sports; Artists Equity, Studio 8 and Mandalay Pictures Amazon Studios
(U.S. distribution)
Warner Bros. Pictures
(International distribution)
April 21, 2023 Ghosted Apple Studios Apple TV+
June 9, 2023 Transformers: Rise of the Beasts Hasbro, Bayhem Films, New Republic Pictures and Di Bonaventura Pictures Paramount Pictures
July 12, 2023 Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning TC Productions
August 11, 2023 Heart of Stone Pilot Wave and Mockingbird Pictures Netflix
September 22, 2023 Spy Kids: Armageddon Troublemaker Studios and Spyglass Media Group
December 15, 2023 The Family Plan Apple Studios and Municipal Pictures Apple TV+
November 22, 2024 Spellbound under Skydance Animation Netflix
February 14, 2025 The Gorge Apple Studios, Lit Entertainment Group and Crooked Highway Apple TV+
May 23, 2025 Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning TC Productions Paramount Pictures
Fountain of Youth[43][44] Apple Studios, Project X Entertainment and Radio Silence Productions Apple TV+
July 2, 2025 The Old Guard 2[45] Denver and Delilah Productions and Marc Evans Productions Netflix

Upcoming

[edit]
Release Title Co-production companies Distributor(s) Ref(s)
November 21, 2025 The Family Plan 2 Apple Studios and Municipal Pictures Apple TV [46]
March 27, 2026 They Will Kill You under Nocturna; New Line Cinema Warner Bros. Pictures [47][48]
2026 Swapped under Skydance Animation Netflix [49]
Matchbox Apple Studios and Mattel Studios Apple TV [50][51]
TBA Ray Gunn under Skydance Animation Netflix [49][52]
Mayday Apple Studios and Maximum Effort Apple TV [53]
Balls Up Reese/Wernick Productions Amazon MGM Studios [54][55]
Way of the Warrior Kid Apple Studios, Wonderland Sound and Vision, Everard Entertainment and Indivisible Productions Apple TV [56]
Untitled Jack Ryan film Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Paramount Pictures and Sunday Night Productions Amazon MGM Studios [57]
Mr. Irrelevant under Skydance Sports; Megamix and Blackjack Films TBA [58]

In development

[edit]
Title Co-production companies Distributor(s) Ref(s)
Untitled Jack and the Beanstalk project under Skydance Animation Netflix [49]
The Tomorrow War 2 New Republic Pictures Amazon MGM Studios [59][60]
G.I. Joe: Ever Vigilant Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Hasbro Entertainment and Di Bonaventura Pictures Paramount Pictures [61]
Rainbow Six 87Eleven Entertainment, Weed Road Pictures, Outlier Society and Midnight Radio Productions [62]
Star Trek 4 Bad Robot and Sneaky Shark Productions [63]
Bermuda Crooked Highway and Mockingbird Pictures TBA [64]
Summer Frost Temple Hill Entertainment [65]
Eternal Champions Sega Sammy Group [66]
Buck Rogers TBA [67]
Atlantis Metronome Film Co. [68]
Best Served Cold Blur Studio [69]
Drift Double Dream and 12:01 Films [70]
Untitled Mike Hammer film TBA [71]
Ranger's Apprentice TBA [72]
The 47 Night Stand Orchard Farm Productions [73]
The Traveler TBA [74]
The Rescue TBA [75]

Divisions

[edit]

Skydance Television

[edit]
Skydance Television, LLC
Company typeDivision
IndustryTV production
FoundedMay 1, 2013; 12 years ago (2013-05-01)
DefunctAugust 7, 2025; 2 months ago (2025-08-07)
FateMerged with MTV Entertainment Studios to form Paramount Television Studios, currently an in-name only label of the company.
SuccessorParamount Television Studios
Headquarters,
United States
Key people
Matt Thunell (president)
Carolyn Harris (vice president)
ProductsTelevision shows
ParentSkydance Media
Websiteskydance.com/tv
Original logo

Skydance Television was a television production company launched by Skydance on May 1, 2013. The division hired Marcy Ross as division president and a month later, Carolyn Harris joined Skydance Television as vice president.[76] However, in January 2020, Ross left her position transitioning to a deal with the media company, where she continues to be an executive producer on Grace and Frankie, Altered Carbon, Condor and Foundation.[77] Bill Bost was promoted from senior vice president to president of Skydance Television.[78] In November 2022, Bost stepped down and launched his own company; Netflix's Matt Thunell took his place.[79]

In May 2014, Jake Rose joined Skydance Television as EVP Production and in March 2018, Carol Turner joined Skydance replacing Rose and overseeing production on site at the studio.[80][81] By July 2014 its first show, Manhattan, was launched on WGN America; it received critical acclaim throughout its run, but failed to secure adequate ratings, resulting in the series being canceled for 2 seasons in 2015.[82][83]

Later in April 2017, director Sam Raimi signed his first look deal at Skydance Television with his television producing partner Debbie Liebling.[84] By September 2017, a multi-year overall agreement was signed by producers Patrick Massett and John Zinman after they joined a series which was based on Sword Art Online.[85] After the 2017 announcement of developing a series adaptation of Isaac Asimov's science fiction book series Foundation with David S. Goyer and Josh Friedman serving as the production's writers.[86] In 2018, Apple TV+ bought the streaming rights to the series renewing it for a second season upon its release in 2021.[87][88] In June 2018, Dietland aired on AMC along with a companion talk show hosted by Aisha Tyler from Archer, under its label company Uncharted.[89]

In September 2019, writer David S. Goyer also signed an deal with Skydance Television for an exclusive multi-year overall agreement as well under his Phantom Four company.[90] In April 2019, Daredevil writer Lewaa Nasserdeen joined Skydance Television in an overall deal as well while developing a semi-autobiographical comedy-drama series on Showtime.[91] In May 2019, Alison Schapker, showrunner of Altered Carbon, made an overall deal with Skydance Television to develop series at the studio, including a US remake of a South Korea series called Hotel del Luna.[92][93] By August 2019, writer Olivia Purnell had signed an overall deal with Skydance Television writing projects for the studio.[94] In May 2020, Nick Santora also got an overall deal with Skydance Television with a series starting Arnold Schwarzenegger called FUBAR, which was released on Netflix in 2023.[95] In May 2020, Skydance Television named Drew Brown as head of production.[96]

In December 2020, Skydance Television signed a first look deal with Exile Content Studio to develop and produce scripted series.[97] By February 2021, the studio also signed a first look deal with Impact, a global talent network and development accelerator program owned by Ron Howard and Brian Grazer for television productions.[98] In November 2021, Peter Johnson joins Skydance Television as a television executive reporting for Bill Bost.[99] By December 2022, it was announced that Octavia Spencer's production company, Orit Entertainment, has entered a multiyear first-look deal for scripted projects for Skydance Television.[100] On March 21, 2023, James Patterson has signed an exclusive first-look pact with Skydance Television to adapt his works such as the Prime Video series Cross along with other projects in development like Women's Murder Club and the upcoming book Jane Smith.[101] In May 2024, Skydance Television doubles on their series output and signed a first-look TV deal with Gina Prince-Bythewood and Reggie Rock Bythewood from their company Undisputed Cinema.[102]

On August 7, 2025 following Skydance Television parent Skydance Media merged with Paramount Global into forming Paramount Skydance, Skydance Television merged with fellow Paramount Skydance's film & television roduction unit Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios into the relaunched television production studio Paramount Television Studios with Skydance Television's state of production being transferred into the revived television studio as Skydance Television president Matt Thunell had joined Paramount Television Studios serving as president of the studio.[103]

Television series

[edit]
Released
[edit]
Title First broadcast Last broadcast Co-production Network
Manhattan July 27, 2014 December 15, 2015 Lionsgate Television, Tribune Studios WGN America
Grace and Frankie May 8, 2015 April 29, 2022 Okay Goodnight! Netflix
Ten Days in the Valley October 1, 2017 January 6, 2018 Under Uncharted; Pentimento Productions, Cameron Pictures ABC
Altered Carbon February 2, 2018 February 27, 2020 Virago Productions, Mythology Entertainment, Phoenix Pictures Netflix
Dietland June 4, 2018 July 30, 2018 Under Uncharted; AMC Studios, Mockingbird Pictures, Tiny Pyro AMC
Unapologetic with Aisha Tyler Under Uncharted; AMC Studios, Embassy Row
Condor June 6, 2018 August 4, 2020 Apophasis Unproductions, Paramount Television Studios, MGM Television Audience Network
Epix
Jack Ryan August 31, 2018 July 14, 2023 Paramount Television Studios, Amazon Studios, Platinum Dunes, Sunday Night Productions, Genre Arts, Push, Boot. Amazon Prime Video
Foundation September 24, 2021 Present Phantom Four Apple TV+
Reacher February 4, 2022 Paramount Television Studios, Amazon Studios, Blackjack Films Amazon Prime Video
Good Rivals November 24, 2022 December 1, 2022 under Skydance Sports; Prime Video Sports, Meadowlark Media, Ocellated Media
The Checkup with Dr. David Agus December 6, 2022 December 12, 2022 See It Now Studios Paramount+
The Big Door Prize March 29, 2023 June 12, 2024 Studio Dragon/CJ ENM, Vidvad, Inc. (season 2) Apple TV+
FUBAR May 25, 2023 June 12, 2025 Blackjack Films Netflix
WondLa June 28, 2024 November 26, 2025 under Skydance Animation; Gotham Group Apple TV+
Terminator Zero August 29, 2024 Production I.G, No Brakes Netflix
Cross November 14, 2024 Present Blue Monday Productions, Paramount Television Studios, Amazon MGM Studios Amazon Prime Video
The Runarounds September 1, 2025 Rockfish Films, Amazon MGM Studios
Upcoming
[edit]
Release Title Co-production Network Ref(s)
2025 Untitled Kansas City Chiefs docuseries under Skydance Sports; NFL Films, Words + Pictures, 2PM Productions, Foolish Club Studios ESPN [104]
TBA 12 12 12 Anonymous Content Apple TV+ [105]
Neuromancer Anonymous Content, DreamCrew Entertainment [106]
Neagley Amazon MGM Studios, CBS Studios, Blackjack Films, Nicholas Wootton Productions Amazon Prime Video [107]
Ride or Die Double Dream, Orit Entertainment [108]
Brothers J.K. Livin Productions Apple TV+ [109]
Sword Art Online Netflix [110][111]
Ring Shout Matt Jackson Pictures, Marc Evans Productions [112][113]
Untitled Lemaa Nasserdeen series Showtime [114]
Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella Nuyorican Productions, Concord Originals Disney+ [115][116]
Faster Than Light TBA [117]
Hotel del Luna CJ ENM, Studio Dragon [93][118][119][120]
Untitled Steins;Gate live-action TV series [121][122]
Oklahoma! The Rodgers & Hammerstein Organization, Concord Originals [123]
The Owl under Skydance Sports; Religion of Sports [124]
Untitled America's Cup documentary series under Skydance Sports; Little Monster Films [125]
Scrapped projects
[edit]
Year Title Network Notes
2017 Red Mars Spike Based on the Mars trilogy by Kim Stanley Robinson[126]
2018 Untitled Miraculous live-action TV series Co-production with ZAG Inc. Based on the animated series by Thomas Astruc.[127]
2021 Untitled G.I. Joe Lady Jaye spin-off series Amazon Prime Video Co-production with Paramount Television Studios, Entertainment One and Di Bonaventura Pictures. Based on the toyline by Donald Levine.[128]

Skydance Interactive

[edit]
Skydance Interactive, LLC
FormerlyThe Workshop Entertainment
Company typeDivision
IndustryVideo games
FoundedMay 5, 2016; 9 years ago (May 5, 2016)[129]
Headquarters,
United States
Key people
Peter Akemann (president)
Dan Prigg[131]
ParentParamount Consumer Products
(Paramount Skydance)
Websiteskydance.com/interactive
Original logo

Skydance Interactive (formerly known as The Workshop Entertainment) is a game division which was launched on May 5, 2016.[15][132][133] It focuses on developing ambitious titles, managing projects licenses with other developers, and developing software innovative game mechanics as well as for VR and emerging platforms.

In May 2017, Chris Hewish was hired as EVP Interactive help to set and execute overall strategy for Skydance Interactive, and oversee development, partnerships, and new business opportunities.[134] On July 18, 2017, its first VR game, Archangel was launched. The game recently expanded into an online multiplayer upgrade, Archangel: Hellfire.[135] Two days later, Skydance Interactive revealed their second original game called PWND, an multiplayer free to play game released on April 6, 2018, where players use Pwns to win.[136]

In 2018, Skydance Interactive partnered with Skybound Entertainment to develop a number of original virtual reality video games based on the expansive world of The Walking Dead universe.[137] The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners and The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners - Chapter 2: Retribution were to be the inaugural titles co-developed by the two companies. In 2023, they also published a Final Cut version of Arashi: Castle of Sin developed by Endeavor One and was released on December 5, 2023 on next-generation virtual reality consoles.[138]

Games

[edit]
Released
[edit]
Release Title Co-developers Platform(s)
July 18, 2017 Archangel Oculus Rift, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation VR
April 6, 2018 PWND Microsoft Windows
January 23, 2020 The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners Skybound Entertainment Oculus Rift, Microsoft Windows, PlayStation VR, Oculus Quest, PICO 4
December 1, 2022 The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners – Chapter 2: Retribution Meta Quest 2, PlayStation VR, PlayStation VR2, PICO 4
December 5, 2023 Arashi: Castles of Sin - Final Cut Endeavor One Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest 3, PlayStation VR2, Windows
December 5, 2024 Skydance's Behemoth Meta Quest 3, PlayStation VR2, SteamVR
Upcoming
[edit]
Release Title Co-developers Platform(s) Ref(s)
TBA Foundation: Galactic Frontier FunPlus TBA [139]

Skydance Animation

[edit]

Skydance Animation is the animation division of Paramount Pictures, separate from Paramount Animation[140]; it focuses on animated feature films and television series. It was founded on March 16, 2017. Its first film was Luck and its first short film was Blush.

Skydance New Media

[edit]
Skydance New Media
Company typeDivision
IndustryVideo games
FoundedNovember 18, 2019; 5 years ago (2019-11-18)
Headquarters,
United States
Key people
Amy Hennig (president)
ParentParamount Consumer Products
Websiteskydance.com/new-media

Skydance New Media is a video game development studio founded by Skydance on November 18, 2019, led by Amy Hennig.[141]

In October 2021, the studio announced a planned collaboration with Marvel Entertainment for an action-adventure game.[142] In April 2022, it was announced that Lucasfilm Games would collaborate making a game based in the Star Wars universe. There has been speculation that the game will be a revival of Project Ragtag which was also led by Henning.[143][144]

In August 2022, Marvel's parent corporation The Walt Disney Company announced their intentions to showcase a slate of video games based on their IP at the joint Disney & Marvel Games Showcase. It would happen in conjunction with the company's annual D23 Expo in person and through broadcasts on multiple streaming platforms.[145] Along with the announcement, Disney said that the panel would also debut a "sneak peek" at Skydance New Media's Marvel title, which is described as being an "ensemble game".[146][147] During the showcase on September 9, 2022, the Marvel project confirmed prior reports that it would be set during World War II. Also Captain America and Azzuri / Black Panther will be featured as the main characters in the ensemble, alongside Gabriel Jones of the Howling Commandos unit and Nanali, leader of the Wakandan Spy Network, while the Hydra organization would serve as the main villains.[148][149][150] In March 2024, during the showcase of State of Unreal, the project was revealed to be titled Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra with the game being powered by Unreal Engine 5. Release is slated for 2026.[151]

Games

[edit]
Release Title Publishers
2026 Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra Plaion
TBA Untitled Star Wars Game Lucasfilm Games

Skydance Sports

[edit]

Skydance Sports is the division launched by Skydance on October 20, 2021, which is dedicated to sports films, series, and documentaries. It is led by Jon Weinbach.[23]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Skydance Media is an American and a division of Paramount Skydance Corporation, founded in 2010 by , specializing in the production of event-level entertainment across film, television, , , and sports content for global audiences. Headquartered in , , the company initially focused on co-financing and producing high-profile action and adventure films in partnership with studios like , achieving nearly $5 billion in worldwide from 15 feature films within its first seven years. Notable cinematic successes include the blockbuster Top Gun: Maverick (2022), which grossed over $1.4 billion globally, and contributions to the Mission: Impossible franchise, such as Rogue Nation (2015) and Fallout (2018). In television, Skydance has produced acclaimed series like Amazon Prime Video's Jack Ryan (2018–2023), Apple TV+'s Foundation (2021–present), and Netflix's Grace and Frankie (2015–2022), alongside recent hits such as Reacher, FUBAR, and The Big Door Prize. Expanding beyond traditional media, Skydance Animation has developed projects like Luck (2022) and Spellbound (2024), while Skydance Interactive focuses on video games and immersive experiences, and Skydance Sports produces content around major leagues and events. Under Ellison's leadership as founder and CEO—drawing from his early mentorship by Steve Jobs and influences from Pixar—the company secured significant investments, including $400 million in 2022 from KKR and others to fuel growth in animation, sports, and interactive divisions. In a transformative development, Skydance completed an $8 billion merger with on August 7, 2025, forming Paramount Skydance Corporation, a next-generation media and technology powerhouse that integrates Paramount's assets—including , , , and —with Skydance's innovative production capabilities. In its first earnings report post-merger, the company posted $6.7 billion in revenue for the July–September 2025 quarter. Ellison now serves as chairman and CEO of the combined entity, positioning it to leverage AI, streaming, and global content strategies amid Hollywood's evolving landscape.

Overview

Founding and mission

Skydance Media was founded in 2010 by , the son of co-founder . Initially operating as Skydance Productions, the company emerged from Ellison's passion for and , aiming to establish an independent entity in Hollywood. From its inception, Skydance focused on financing and producing high-profile feature films, targeting tentpole projects in genres such as action, adventure, , and fantasy. The company's debut efforts centered on ambitious productions, reflecting Ellison's vision for event-level cinema that could captivate global audiences. Skydance's mission has been to create elevated, event-level entertainment across , , , gaming, and sports, with a strong emphasis on innovative and broad appeal to international viewers. This foundational goal positioned the company as a diversified media committed to high-quality content that pushes creative boundaries. In , Skydance Productions rebranded to Skydance Media to better encompass its expanding scope beyond production.

Post-merger status and ownership

On August 7, 2025, Skydance Media and Paramount Global completed their merger, forming Paramount Skydance Corporation as a standalone global media and entertainment company valued at approximately $8.4 billion. This transaction marked the culmination of negotiations that positioned Skydance as a pivotal production entity within the new structure, particularly enhancing operations under Paramount Pictures by integrating Skydance's expertise in film, animation, and interactive content. David Ellison, founder of Skydance, assumed the roles of chairman and chief executive officer of Paramount Skydance Corporation, overseeing the combined entity's strategic direction. The ownership structure of Paramount Skydance Corporation reflects majority control by the Ellison family and key investors, including RedBird Capital Partners, who provided a long-term strategic to support the company's growth. This arrangement absorbed , Inc., the former controlling shareholder of , into the new entity, while integrating Paramount's extensive assets such as , , , and into a unified portfolio. Skydance itself operates as a core production arm, contributing its technological and creative capabilities to bolster the overall media ecosystem without altering the subsidiary status of Paramount's legacy brands. Post-merger, Paramount Skydance Corporation operates through three core business segments: Studios, comprising filmed entertainment led by Paramount Pictures and Skydance productions; Direct-to-Consumer, including streaming platforms such as Paramount+, Pluto TV, and others; and TV Media, encompassing broadcast and cable networks such as CBS, Nickelodeon, MTV, BET, and more. The corporation has shifted its strategic emphasis toward leveraging the combined resources for innovative , expanded streaming services, and enhanced global distribution networks. This includes utilizing Skydance's production strengths alongside Paramount's vast library to develop tech-enabled storytelling and reach broader audiences worldwide. The focus aims to drive through revitalized entertainment offerings, with initial steps involving operational efficiencies and new content initiatives across , , and digital platforms.

History

Inception and early financing

Skydance Productions was established in 2006 by , son of co-founder , with initial funding drawn from David's personal resources and family support. Ellison, an aspiring and enthusiast, leveraged his father's financial backing to enter the film industry, marking the company's launch as a production entity focused on high-concept action films. The company's inaugural project was the aviation drama Flyboys, which Ellison co-financed alongside (MGM) and in which he starred as Eddie Beagle. With a of $60 million, the film represented Skydance's entry into independent financing outside traditional studio models, though it underperformed commercially, grossing $13.1 million domestically and $17.8 million worldwide. In late 2009, Skydance secured a pivotal four-year co-financing, production, and distribution agreement with , committing to fund four to six films annually while granting each other first-look rights on projects. To support this partnership, Ellison raised $350 million in —comprising $150 million in equity (including contributions from ) and a $200 million revolving credit facility led by —enabling Skydance to co-produce major releases like Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol. This deal solidified early distribution channels but emerged amid industry skepticism toward "dumb money" investors like Ellison. The late 2000s economic downturn, including the and , posed significant hurdles for Skydance's growth, as movie financing became scarce and studios like struggled with slate funding due to declining DVD revenues. Securing top talent and budgets required navigating a risk-averse environment, where Ellison's relative inexperience and family ties drew scrutiny, yet his persistence in raising capital during this period laid the foundation for Skydance's expansion.

Diversification into media sectors

In the early , Skydance Media, originally established as Skydance Productions in , underwent a strategic and expansion to evolve from a film-focused entity into a diversified media company encompassing , , and interactive gaming divisions. This shift was driven by founder David Ellison's vision to produce high-quality, event-level entertainment across multiple platforms, marking the company's transition toward a broader presence. A pivotal step in this diversification occurred in 2013 with the launch of Skydance Television on May 1, under the leadership of Marcy Ross as president. Ross, a former executive, oversaw the development of premium scripted content for various networks and streaming services, building the division into a prolific supplier of series that expanded Skydance's footprint beyond theatrical releases. This move capitalized on the growing demand for television programming, positioning Skydance as a key player in the evolving media landscape. Further broadening its portfolio, Skydance entered the interactive media space in 2016 by acquiring The Workshop Entertainment, an independent developer, and rebranding it as Skydance Interactive. The studio focused on and immersive gaming experiences, with its debut title launching in 2017 for . Concurrently, in March 2017, Skydance launched its animation division through a multi-year partnership with Spain's Ilion Animation Studios, aiming to create bold, original animated stories for global audiences. This collaboration later evolved into a full acquisition and rebranding of Ilion as in 2020, enhancing in-house capabilities. Skydance's diversification extended to sports media in October 2021 with the establishment of Skydance Sports, led by producer . The division concentrated on premium scripted and unscripted content, documentaries, and events, including early projects like the docuseries Good Rivals for . In May 2022, Skydance secured $400 million in investments led by KKR and others to support growth in its , , and interactive divisions. To support its multi-platform growth, Skydance forged key partnerships with major streaming services, notably co-producing content with —such as the action series Reacher and Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan—and Apple TV+, including the adaptation Foundation. These collaborations, beginning in the late , underscored Skydance's ability to deliver high-profile series tailored for , solidifying its role in the streaming era.

Merger with Paramount Global

In late 2023, amid 's mounting financial challenges—including $14.6 billion in long-term debt and declining linear TV revenues—initial merger discussions emerged between Skydance Media and Paramount, with reports of Skydance's proposal surfacing in . These talks, which were on-again-off-again throughout 2024, were driven by Paramount's need for investment to stabilize its operations and adapt to streaming competition. The negotiations culminated in a definitive agreement signed on July 8, 2024, structured as an $8 billion all-stock transaction involving a three-way merger among Skydance Media, (Paramount's controlling shareholder), and itself. Under the deal terms, Skydance and its partners, including the Ellison family and RedBird Capital, committed $2.4 billion in cash to acquire , providing immediate capital infusion while granting Skydance majority equity and voting control in the combined entity. The structure valued the new company at an enterprise worth of approximately $28 billion, with Skydance injecting $1.5 billion in additional non-voting stock for Paramount's non-voting shareholders. The merger timeline faced multiple delays due to regulatory reviews and shareholder consents, including extensions granted by Delaware courts in April and July 2025 to allow for FCC scrutiny. The Federal Communications Commission approved the transaction on July 24, 2025, after a review process that began with the filing in August 2024 and included voluntary commitments from Skydance on content diversity and local media support. The deal closed on August 7, 2025, following final shareholder approvals and the satisfaction of all closing conditions. Immediately following the merger's completion, the combined company—renamed Paramount Skydance Corporation—initiated leadership transitions to align executive oversight under a unified structure. Asset integrations began promptly, with Paramount's extensive film and television library, including iconic franchises, being incorporated into Skydance's production pipeline to enhance content distribution across streaming and theatrical platforms. These early steps facilitated seamless operational continuity while setting the stage for post-merger synergies in media production. Following the merger, Paramount Skydance implemented significant cost-cutting measures, including layoffs affecting approximately 2,000 employees in October 2025 and a mandated five-day return-to-office policy that resulted in about 600 resignations at a cost of $185 million. On November 10, 2025, the company reported Q3 earnings, announcing plans for an additional $1 billion in savings on top of the initial $2 billion target to bolster streaming and content strategies.

Key personnel

Executive leadership

David Ellison founded Skydance Media in 2010 and has served as its since inception, guiding the company's expansion into , , , and with a focus on high-profile, event-level entertainment projects. Following the completion of the merger with in August 2025, Ellison assumed the roles of Chairman and of the newly formed Paramount Skydance Corporation, overseeing the integrated entity's strategic direction and operations. His leadership emphasizes leveraging advanced technologies, such as AI, to enhance storytelling and production efficiency, aiming to position the company as a hybrid media-technology enterprise. Ellison's approach also prioritizes acquiring top creative talent, including directors and producers, to drive innovative content across divisions. Prior to the merger, key executive hires bolstered Skydance's operational foundation. Jesse Sisgold joined in 2014 as President of Business Affairs and Strategic Planning before ascending to President and Chief Operating Officer in 2020, where he managed overall strategy, growth initiatives, and served as Chairman of Skydance Sports. Following the merger, Sisgold was appointed President of Paramount Sports Entertainment, leading the new division focused on sports content and partnerships. Marcy Ross was appointed President of Skydance Television in 2013, leading the division's development of original programming such as Grace and Frankie and Altered Carbon until her departure in 2020 to pursue producing under an overall deal with the company. For the interactive division, Dan Prigg was named Head of Skydance Interactive in 2022, overseeing strategy and production for story-driven games and experiences. Post-merger, the executive team integrated Paramount's leadership with Skydance's core personnel to streamline operations across the expanded portfolio. , former CEO of , was appointed President, focusing on business operations and partnerships. Andy Gordon serves as Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Operating Officer, handling corporate strategy and day-to-day efficiencies. In films, integration initially involved Paramount's as President and Chief Content Officer, but he exited in August 2025, with Josh Greenstein and Dana Goldberg stepping in as Co-Chairs of the Motion Picture Group to lead film production and distribution. This blended structure reflects Ellison's vision for collaborative leadership that combines Skydance's entrepreneurial agility with Paramount's established infrastructure.

Board and notable figures

Following the merger of Skydance Media and , which closed on August 7, 2025, the new entity, Paramount Skydance Corporation, established an 11-member as of September 2025, replacing the previous board in its entirety. This board includes representatives from the Ellison family interests, key investors such as RedBird Capital Partners and Silver Lake, and holdovers from Paramount's legacy, with four independent directors to ensure balanced oversight. The composition reflects a strategic emphasis on media expertise, , and financial acumen to guide the company's post-merger direction, including approvals for major acquisitions and content investments. The board is chaired by , who also serves as of Paramount Skydance. Board members include:
NameRole/Affiliation
Chairman and , Paramount Skydance.
Barbara ByrneIndependent director; former Vice Chairman, Barclays PLC.
Gerry CardinaleFounder, Managing Partner, and Chief Investment Officer, RedBird Capital Partners.
Safra A. Catz, .
Andy GordonChief Strategy Officer and Chief Operating Officer, Paramount Skydance.
Justin G. HamillIndependent director; Managing Director and Chief Legal Officer, Silver Lake.
Independent director; former Chairman and CEO, .
Paul MarinelliPresident, Lawrence Investments, LLC.
President, Paramount Skydance.
Chairman, RedBird Capital Partners.
Dennis K. CinelliIndependent director; Chief Financial Officer, Scale AI (appointed September 16, 2025).
This structure positions the board to oversee high-level strategic decisions, such as potential media consolidations and technology-driven expansions. Beyond the board, notable external figures exert influence on Skydance's trajectory. , father of and co-founder of , holds a significant minority stake with approximately 35.5% of the Ellison family's voting rights in Paramount Skydance, providing advisory input on major deals without a formal board seat. His financial backing was in facilitating the merger and subsequent explorations, such as potential bids for other media assets. In creative domains, Jerry Bruckheimer stands out as a key collaborator, having co-produced blockbuster films with Skydance, including Top Gun: Maverick (2022) and ongoing projects like F1 (2025) and the adventure film Fortune. His involvement underscores Skydance's focus on high-profile action and franchise content, with board-level approvals ensuring alignment with these partnerships.

Corporate structure

Headquarters and operations

Skydance Media's primary headquarters is located at 2900 Olympic Boulevard in , serving as the central hub for its film, television, interactive, and corporate operations. The company also maintains additional offices, including facilities at 4223 Glencoe Avenue in , which support animation and interactive development activities. These locations facilitate a distributed yet interconnected operational footprint in the Los Angeles area, with further operating from offices in the Miracle Mile district of and in , . Prior to the 2025 merger with , Skydance employed over 500 people across its divisions, enabling a robust production pipeline for multimedia content. Following the merger's completion in August 2025, the company's operational scale expanded through integration with Paramount's infrastructure, incorporating access to historic facilities in Hollywood while preserving the Santa Monica base where hundreds of employees continue to work. This expansion supports enhanced resource sharing, including production studios and technical assets, to streamline and distribution. Skydance's workflow emphasizes a collaborative model that integrates financial oversight, creative development, and distribution strategies from project through release. This team-focused approach fosters an inclusive culture where input from artists and executives drives innovation, encapsulated in the company's ethos of collective advancement in production. Post-merger, operations leverage shared resources with Paramount's Hollywood studios to optimize workflows across , , and , enhancing efficiency without disrupting core creative processes.

Financial overview

Skydance Media was founded in 2010 with initial funding primarily from investments by the Ellison family, totaling approximately $350 million in equity and debt by that year. This capital infusion, led by with support from his father, co-founder , enabled the company's early entry into film production and financing partnerships, such as its initial slate deal with . The company's revenue streams have historically derived from film financing deals, co-productions, and licensing agreements with platforms like and Apple TV+. By 2023, Skydance's productions had generated over $10 billion in cumulative global box office earnings, driven by major franchises including the series and . These successes contributed to annual revenues of $992 million in 2023, marking a 3% increase from the prior year, with film and television segments accounting for the majority at $965.7 million. Prior to its merger with , Skydance was valued at approximately $4.75 billion as part of the $8 billion transaction announced in and completed in August 2025. The deal was financed through a combination of equity investments from Skydance investors and debt, including contributions from entities like RedBird Capital Partners. Following the merger, the combined entity, Paramount Skydance Corporation, reported third-quarter 2025 revenues of $6.7 billion as of September 30, 2025, flat year-over-year but below analyst expectations. Skydance's contributions have particularly bolstered streaming growth, with enhanced content pipelines supporting platforms like Paramount+ (which saw a 17% year-over-year increase in streaming revenue). The company has projected full-year 2026 revenues of $30 billion.

Divisions

Skydance Animation

Skydance Animation was established on March 16, 2017, as a full-service through a multi-year partnership between Skydance Media and Madrid-based Ilion Animation Studios, marking the company's entry into and television production. This collaboration created a transatlantic operation spanning the and , aimed at developing original intellectual properties in (CGI). The studio's leadership underwent a significant change in January 2019 when , former chief creative officer at and , was appointed head of . Following the 2025 merger with , Lasseter continued in this role, overseeing the division's independent operations alongside executive Holly Edwards, with a primary focus on family-oriented CGI feature films and series. This emphasis aligns with the studio's goal of creating emotionally resonant stories for broad audiences, leveraging Lasseter's expertise in character-driven . Key facilities include production studios in , , and , , which support end-to-end pipelines from story development to final rendering, employing over 350 animators and artists across both locations. These sites enable a globally integrated workflow, with handling substantial CGI workloads and driving creative direction. In its strategic role, Skydance Animation prioritizes the creation of original IP, exemplified by the 2022 release of , a family adventure film that highlighted the studio's capabilities in high-quality CGI storytelling. The division is also expanding into animated television series to build a robust portfolio of family entertainment. Upcoming projects include the feature Swapped (formerly Pookoo), directed by , set for release in 2026, as well as Ray Gunn, directed by .

Skydance Interactive

Skydance Interactive, a division of Skydance Media, was launched on May 3, 2016, through the acquisition of game developer The Workshop Entertainment. The studio specializes in creating and publishing (VR) and immersive video games, emphasizing narrative-driven experiences that leverage for . Its focus includes both original titles and adaptations of established intellectual properties, aiming to deliver high-fidelity gameplay on leading VR platforms. Among its key releases, Skydance Interactive developed The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners, a VR survival horror game set in the zombie apocalypse universe, which launched on January 23, 2020, for PC and Oculus platforms, followed by PlayStation VR in May 2020. The title earned critical acclaim for its immersive mechanics and choice-based narrative, establishing the studio's reputation in the VR space. Another flagship project, Skydance's Behemoth, is a dark fantasy action RPG featuring intense melee combat against colossal creatures; it was released on December 5, 2024, for Meta Quest, PlayStation VR2, and PC VR. Behemoth received a major update, 'The Rites of Wrath', on June 3, 2025, introducing new arena and boss rush modes. The division has formed strategic partnerships for distribution and platform support, including collaborations with Meta (formerly Oculus) for Quest hardware and for ecosystems, enabling broad accessibility of its titles across major VR devices. Following Skydance Media's merger with , completed on August 7, 2025, Skydance Interactive's gaming expertise is positioned to integrate with Paramount's media assets, potentially enhancing cross-platform initiatives in interactive entertainment and revitalizing the combined entity's gaming portfolio.

Skydance Television

Skydance Television was launched on May 1, 2013, as a division of Skydance Media, with industry veteran Marcy Ross appointed as its first president to oversee the development of premium scripted content. The division initially focused on creating high-caliber dramas and limited series, aiming to build a portfolio of ambitious storytelling for broadcast and emerging streaming outlets. Ross led the unit until January 2020, when she transitioned to an overall producing deal, succeeded briefly by Bill Bost before Matt Thunell took over as president in November 2022. The production model of Skydance Television emphasizes co-productions with established networks and platforms, including Showtime for prestige cable series and streaming services such as , , and Apple TV+ for broader digital distribution. This collaborative approach facilitates shared resources and creative input, enabling the division to deliver content tailored to specific audience demands while mitigating financial risks in a competitive market. Over the years, it has cultivated partnerships that support a diverse output, spanning genres from and action thrillers to comedies and historical pieces. Skydance Television has generated dozens of series, establishing itself as a key supplier of premium television programming with a track record of critical and commercial successes. Following the completion of Skydance Media's merger with on August 7, 2025, the division integrated into the revived Paramount TV Studios, led by president Matt Thunell, which has expanded its distribution opportunities on Paramount+ and across the combined entity's global platforms. In November 2025, Paramount Skydance announced plans for a significant expansion of its television studios' output. This post-merger alignment enhances access to Paramount's infrastructure for production and streaming, positioning Skydance Television to scale its output within a larger media ecosystem.

Skydance New Media

Skydance New Media, established in 2019 as an interactive division of Skydance Media, was formed to pioneer story-driven experiences beyond conventional film and television production. Led by industry veteran , who joined as creative director, the division assembles teams with expertise in narrative design and AAA game development to craft immersive, IP-based interactive content. This initiative expands Skydance's portfolio into high-fidelity action-adventure games that emphasize exploration, mystery, and cinematic spectacle on traditional gaming platforms. The division's core focus lies in immersive storytelling through interactive media, prioritizing character-driven narratives and player agency in richly detailed worlds. Projects under Skydance New Media aim to blend the emotional depth of linear media with the interactivity of gaming, fostering serialized IP development suitable for ongoing engagement. While distinct from Skydance Interactive's VR-centric efforts, New Media's work complements broader explorations in emerging digital formats. Key projects include the 2021 partnership with to develop Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra, a narrative action-adventure game set during , featuring and Azzuri (T'Chaka's father) in a tale of and heroism; the title, built using Unreal Engine 5, is slated for release beyond early 2026 to ensure quality standards. Another significant collaboration, announced in April 2022, involves for an original Star Wars project, highlighting the division's emphasis on expanding iconic franchises into interactive realms. These efforts underscore Skydance New Media's role in evolving media through innovative, story-focused prototypes. Following the August 2025 merger with , Skydance New benefits from the combined entity's vision as a technology-media hybrid, enabling potential collaborations with Paramount's R&D in areas like advanced production tools to enhance interactive . This integration supports synergies in tech-driven , aligning with Skydance's goal of delivering next-generation entertainment experiences.

Skydance Sports

Skydance Sports is the sports media division of Skydance Media, launched on October 20, 2021, to focus on creating and broadcasting premium sports content, including scripted and unscripted programming, documentaries, and live events. Led by veteran producer as president, the division aims to partner with leagues, teams, athletes, and entertainment talent to produce high-profile sports narratives across platforms. Within its first year, Skydance Sports completed initial projects such as the Sports Emmy-nominated docuseries Good Rivals for , which explored rivalries in global soccer leagues. A pivotal development occurred on November 15, 2022, when Skydance Sports formed a with the and to establish a premier global multi-sports production studio. This partnership has driven key activities in NFL-related content production, including documentaries like The Pick Is In, a Roku feature chronicling the 2023 process, and unscripted series such as Kelce, which followed center Jason Kelce's 2022 season. Collaborations have extended to for projects like the 2025 Original Series The Kingdom, a six-episode documentary on the produced in partnership with Skydance Sports and , which premiered on August 14, 2025, on , , and Disney+. While direct production for is not a core focus, the division's NFL ties support broader ecosystem integrations, including content distributed via network partners. The division has expanded into documentaries and live event coverage, leveraging the partnership to produce immersive content on major league moments, such as player journeys and draft selections, without specific integrations into broadcasts. Notable examples include the 2025 Prime Video for a six-part series tracking players and a documentary on WNBA star . Following the August 2025 merger of Skydance Media with , valued at $8 billion, Skydance Sports gained access to assets, including the network's broadcasting rights package extending through 2033. In September 2025, Paramount launched the Sports Entertainment division, led by Jesse Sisgold, incorporating Skydance Sports to develop scripted, , and interactive sports content. Additionally, on November 12, 2025, announced 'NFL Hometown Eats', a new series produced with Skydance Sports, , and . This integration enhances the division's capabilities for broader coverage, combining Skydance's production expertise with CBS's established infrastructure for live events and analysis, while the 's minority stake in the provides the league indirect ownership in .

Productions

Released feature films

Skydance Media's feature film division has produced a diverse slate of live-action and animated titles since the company's early productions beginning in under its predecessor Skydance Productions, contributing significantly to major franchises and achieving commercial success through high-profile releases. Early efforts focused on historical dramas and Westerns, evolving into blockbuster action sequels and original sci-fi adventures, while its arm debuted with streaming-oriented family films. Key productions have grossed billions worldwide, with notable impacts on records and recognition. The company's inaugural film, Flyboys (2006), directed by Tony Bill, depicted American pilots in World War I and was produced on a $60 million budget, earning $17.8 million globally despite mixed reception. This was followed by the Coen brothers' Western remake True Grit (2010), directed by Joel and Ethan Coen, which had a $35 million budget and grossed $252 million worldwide, receiving 10 Academy Award nominations including Best Picture and Best Director. Skydance expanded into major franchises with the series, co-producing films starting from Ghost Protocol (2011) through Dead Reckoning Part One (2023), directed by for several entries, which collectively boosted the franchise's global earnings beyond $4 billion and earned critical acclaim for innovative action sequences. In 2022, Skydance delivered the record-breaking sequel , directed by and co-written by McQuarrie, with a $170 million budget that propelled it to $1.5 billion in worldwide , the highest-grossing film of the year and winner of the . That same year, the sci-fi family film The Adam Project, directed by , was released on with a $116 million budget, starring in a time-travel that garnered strong streaming viewership. Skydance's animated output, led by its Animation division under , began with Luck (2022), an Apple TV+ original directed by , featuring voices like in a story about good and bad fortune, produced as the studio's first fully animated feature. This was followed by Spellbound (2024), directed by for , a musical fantasy with voicing the lead princess on a quest to save her kingdom, emphasizing themes of family and magic through original songs by .
FilmYearDirectorBudgetWorldwide Box OfficeKey Notes
Flyboys2006$60 million$17.8 millionHistorical war drama; produced under Skydance Productions.
True Grit2010Joel & Ethan Coen$35 million$252 millionWestern remake; 10 Oscar nominations.
2022$170 million$1.5 billionAction sequel; highest-grossing film of 2022, Oscar for Best Sound.
The Adam Project2022$116 millionN/A (Netflix streaming)Sci-fi adventure; strong viewer engagement.
Luck2022Peggy HolmesUndisclosedN/A (Apple TV+ streaming)Animated fantasy; first from Skydance Animation.
Spellbound2024UndisclosedN/A (Netflix streaming)Animated musical; features score.

Upcoming and in-development feature films

Skydance Media, following its merger with in August 2025, has prioritized several high-profile feature films for release in 2026 and beyond, with distribution partnerships spanning theatrical releases through Paramount and streaming via Apple Original Films. The merger has streamlined production pipelines and integrated Paramount's infrastructure for wider international distribution, including theatrical rollouts where applicable, without reported major interruptions to the slate. One of the key upcoming projects is the live-action adaptation of , set for a 2026 release exclusively on Apple TV+, directed by and starring in the lead role alongside , , and . This film, a collaboration between Skydance, , and Apple, draws from the iconic toy vehicle line and emphasizes high-octane action sequences, with production advancing steadily post-merger without reported interruptions. Another anticipated 2026 release is the animated feature formerly titled Pookoo, now rebranded as Swapped, slated for , marking Skydance Animation's continued expansion in family-oriented content. In development, Best Served Cold is an adaptation of Joe Abercrombie's novel, with attached to star as the vengeful mercenary Monza Murcatto and Tim Miller set to direct; announced in 2023, development has stalled as of mid-2025, though it could potentially revive. Similarly, , a sci-fi fantasy loosely inspired by the myth, is advancing under director , who is producing alongside writer Charmaine DeGraté; acquired by Skydance in early 2023, it benefits from the post-merger emphasis on original IP development. The Top Gun 3 sequel, a cornerstone franchise for Skydance and Paramount, is in active script development by , with eyed to direct and returning as Maverick; production is targeted to begin in late 2026 or 2027, aiming for a 2028 release, bolstered by the merger's focus on blockbuster continuations. Budget details for these projects remain undisclosed, but Skydance's integrated operations post-merger are expected to support budgets in the $100-200 million range for tentpole s, with global distribution handled through Paramount's network for theatrical emphasis. Additionally, a live-action , announced in September 2025, is in early development as a partnership with , further diversifying Skydance's action slate.

Television series

Skydance Television has developed and produced a diverse slate of premium scripted series, spanning comedies, action thrillers, and epics, primarily for major streaming services. These productions emphasize character-driven narratives and high production values, with many achieving significant critical and audience acclaim. Key examples include long-running comedies like , action series such as Reacher, and ambitious adaptations like Foundation, alongside animated content for younger audiences. One of Skydance's flagship series is the comedy , which aired on from 2015 to 2022 across seven seasons and 94 episodes. Created and showrun by and Howard J. Morris, the series follows two women whose lives upend when their husbands reveal a long-term affair and decide to marry each other, leading to an unlikely friendship amid personal reinvention. Produced in partnership with , it became the streamer's longest-running original series at the time of its conclusion. In the action-drama genre, Reacher premiered on Prime Video in 2022 and continues as of 2025, with three seasons and 24 episodes to date, each season consisting of eight roughly 50-minute installments. Developed and showrun by , the series adapts Lee Child's book series, centering on nomadic investigator as he uncovers conspiracies while drifting through small towns. It has garnered massive viewership, with season one amassing 1.8 billion minutes viewed in its debut week, marking it as Prime Video's most-watched original series launch at the time. Season three, released in 2025, drew 54.6 million global viewers in its first 19 days, solidifying its status as the platform's top returning series. Skydance's foray into science fiction is exemplified by Foundation, which debuted on Apple TV+ in 2021 and has run for three seasons with 30 episodes as of 2025, each season featuring 10 hour-long episodes. Co-created and initially showrun by David S. Goyer (who stepped down ahead of season three, with Bill Bost taking over as executive producer), the series adapts Isaac Asimov's foundational novels, depicting mathematician Hari Seldon's efforts to preserve knowledge amid a galactic empire's collapse through the predictive science of psychohistory. Produced with Apple Studios, it highlights Skydance's commitment to large-scale, effects-driven storytelling. For animated programming, Skydance contributed to , a children's adventure series on from 2019 to 2021, comprising three seasons and 21 episodes in a mix of half-hour formats. Showrun by Scott Peterson and based on Max Brallier's graphic novels, it follows a group of middle-schoolers surviving a in their treetop stronghold, blending humor, action, and monster battles. The series targeted family audiences with its episodic quests and themes of friendship and resilience.
SeriesFormatNetworkRun DatesSeasons/EpisodesKey Production Notes
Grace and FrankieLive-action comedyNetflix2015–20227 seasons / 94 episodesShowrunners: Marta Kauffman, Howard J. Morris; Netflix's longest original at conclusion
ReacherLive-action action-dramaPrime Video2022–present3 seasons / 24 episodesShowrunner: Nick Santora; Record 1.8B minutes viewed in season 1 debut week
FoundationLive-action sci-fi dramaApple TV+2021–present3 seasons / 30 episodesInitial showrunner: David S. Goyer; Adapts Asimov novels with psychohistory focus
The Last Kids on EarthAnimated adventureNetflix2019–20213 seasons / 21 episodesShowrunner: Scott Peterson; Zombie apocalypse for kids, based on graphic novels

Video games and interactive media

Skydance Interactive, the gaming division of Skydance Media, specializes in creating immersive (VR) experiences and interactive media, emphasizing narrative-driven gameplay and advanced physics-based interactions using engines like . Launched in 2016, the studio has focused primarily on VR titles for platforms including Meta Quest, , and PC VR via SteamVR, with select expansions into mobile and console. Their projects often blend original stories with licensed IP, prioritizing player agency in combat and exploration. Among its released titles, (2017) marked Skydance Interactive's debut, a set in a dystopian world where players pilot mechs to battle authoritarian forces. Available on , , and at launch, it earned "Best VR Game" accolades at from outlets like Geek Citadel and MMOGames for its cinematic storytelling and on-rails action. Skydance Interactive's breakthrough came with The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners (2020), a survival horror VR game developed in collaboration with Skybound Games, where players navigate zombie-infested New Orleans, scavenging and making moral choices amid faction conflicts. Released on Meta Quest, PlayStation VR, and PC VR, the title and its 2023 sequel Chapter 2: Retribution—which continues the story with co-op elements—have collectively generated nearly $100 million in revenue by early 2024, underscoring their commercial success in the VR market. The series received nominations for "Best VR/AR Game" at The Game Awards 2020 and praise for innovative melee combat systems. Other notable releases include Arashi: Castles of Sin - Final Cut (2023), a stealth-action VR title published by Skydance where players embody a traversing feudal to thwart bandit lords, available on Meta Quest and . More recently, Skydance's (2024) delivers a fantasy action-adventure in a ruined kingdom, featuring intense melee battles against colossal monsters using physics-driven swordplay on Meta Quest 2/3, , and PC VR. It garnered nominations for Best Immersive Experience at the 2025 and Immersive Reality Game of the Year at the D.I.C.E. Awards. Foundation: Galactic Frontier (2025), a mobile strategy game licensed from the Apple TV+ series based on Isaac Asimov's works, expands Skydance's portfolio into non-VR interactive media, allowing players to command fleets in a sci-fi empire-building narrative on , Android, and PC. Looking ahead, Skydance Interactive and its sibling studio Skydance New Media are developing high-profile projects like Marvel 1943: Rise of Hydra, a narrative action-adventure set in World War II featuring Captain America and Black Panther, delayed beyond early 2026 for consoles and PC. Additionally, an untitled Star Wars action-adventure game, led by veteran director Amy Hennig, is in production with Lucasfilm Games, promising a story-focused experience in the iconic universe. These titles highlight Skydance's growing emphasis on cross-platform immersive storytelling beyond pure VR.

References

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