Big Media is relevant for political influence but also for data and reach that is useful for winning in AI.

Paramount Global, post its August 2025 merger with Skydance Media, trades at a ~$20 billion market cap, encompassing CBS (broadcast TV leader with 20+ million weekly prime-time viewers), Paramount+ (60 million subscribers), and film/studio assets. Ellison's family—primarily Larry via his Lawrence Investments family office—holds an effective ~80% controlling stake, valued at $16 billion.

Holding Structure:
Layer 1: Skydance Media Acquisition: Skydance (led by son David Ellison) acquired Paramount for $8 billion in cash/equity, with the Ellison family funding ~$6 billion (75% of the deal). RedBird Capital contributed the balance for a 22.5% voting slice.