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Mergers & Microphones: This Week's Headlines

Mergers & Microphones: This Week's Headlines

This week, high-stakes legal battles are highlighting the consequences of media power. The FCC approved Paramount's $8 billion merger with Skydance after intense scrutiny, while commentator Candace Owens faces a defamation lawsuit from France's president over controversial podcast remarks. From regulatory hurdles to speech liabilities, these cases reveal the complex legal landscape shaping today's media industry.

ChaseLawyers Newsletter
July 29, 2025

Hi there,

This week's newsletter examines two high-profile cases reshaping media law. The FCC's approval of Paramount's $8 billion merger with Skydance marks a watershed moment for Hollywood dealmaking, while commentator Candace Owens faces a defamation lawsuit from France's president over controversial podcast remarks. These developments spotlight the legal tightropes in corporate mergers and on-air speech—where billion-dollar deals and bold commentary both carry serious consequences.

FCC Approves $8 Billion Paramount-Skydance Merger After Regulatory Review

The Federal Communications Commission has granted final approval to Paramount Global's $8 billion merger with Skydance Media, concluding months of regulatory scrutiny. The deal, which combines Paramount's historic film library with Skydance's production expertise, survived antitrust concerns through creative structuring of equity and voting rights. Industry analysts note the approval sets a precedent for future media consolidation, particularly in the competitive streaming sector where content ownership is increasingly valuable. Paramount shareholders are expected to vote on the merger later this month.

Candace Owens Sued for Defamation by French President Over Podcast Remarks

Conservative commentator Candace Owens faces a defamation lawsuit filed by French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte over claims made on her podcast about their personal lives. The suit, filed in Paris, alleges Owens spread false information to her substantial audience, damaging the Macrons' reputation. Legal experts note the case could test jurisdictional boundaries as U.S.-based media personalities increasingly face legal action from foreign plaintiffs. Owens has vowed to fight the lawsuit, calling it an attack on free speech.

Stay in the Know

Don’t miss out on the full stories and insights shaping the future of entertainment. Tap into these trends now to stay ahead of the curve and navigate the industry's biggest transformations.

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Paramount-Skydance Merger Approved by FCC, Clearing Way for $8 Billion Deal Close

The FCC has approved Paramount's blockbuster merger with Skydance Media, removing the final regulatory hurdle for the $8 billion deal that will reshape Hollywood's streaming wars.

Candace Owens Sued for Defamation by French President and Wife

Emmanuel Macron has filed a defamation lawsuit against commentator Candace Owens for claims made on her podcast about his personal life, testing free speech boundaries in international media.

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