Paramount has hired Makan Delrahim, a former Department of Justice head, as its chief legal officer.
Delrahim served as assistant attorney general for the antitrust division at the Department of Justice during President Trump’s first term, and most recently worked at Latham & Watkins LLP, where he and his firm provided legal counsel to Skydance Media throughout the acquisition process of Paramount.
The move of a former antitrust head also comes as Paramount has been reported to be seeking an acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, which would likely face some regulatory hurdles.
Delrahim begins in the role at Paramount Oct. 6.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Makan to the Paramount leadership team. His longstanding collaboration with the Skydance team gives him a unique perspective and provides a strong foundation for our work together as we pursue our vision for the future of Paramount. Makan brings a strategic mindset and a strong track record of navigating complex, cross-sector challenges – qualities that will be instrumental as we shape the next chapter of Paramount and deliver sustained value to our investors, partners, and audiences,” said David Ellison, Chairman and CEO of Paramount, a Skydance Corporation.
“I’m honored to join Paramount at such a dynamic and transformative time for the media industry. This is a sector where business, technology, and culture converge in increasingly complex ways, creating both challenges and extraordinary opportunities. Throughout my career, I’ve worked at the intersection of law, policy, and innovation, and I look forward to contributing that experience as part of Paramount’s world-class leadership team. I’m excited to support the Company as it continues to lead, evolve, and ultimately help shape the future of entertainment,” Delrahim said.
Stephanie Kyoko McKinnon, the company’s general counsel and acting chief legal officer, will continue as general counsel and report to Delrahim.