Parametric Partners: Skydance Executives Discuss the Future of Cable Content Production

Paramount Skydance’s top executives aren’t looking to follow moves by NBCUniversal and Warner Bros. Discovery to spin off their company’s cable channels into a separate entity. That should not, however, be taken to mean that they’re just fine with the status quo.

“There’s no question that [cable is] a super challenging business,” George Cheeks, chairman of TV media at the newly merged company, said Wednesday during a media session with other members of Paramount Skydance’s C-suite. Cheeks, who was a co-CEO of Paramount and head of CBS prior to the merger, will continue to run the broadcast network while adding the company’s cable outlets to his portfolio.

With streaming taking a dominant position in TV use and cable numbers shrinking, Cheeks and Paramount Skydance president Jeff Shell both acknowledged to reporters that they’ll need to make some changes to the business model. Cheeks also noted that Paramount’s cable channels are home to a number of “iconic franchises” that will be continue to be valuable to the company. He didn’t name-check any particular property, but cable institutions like South Park, The Daily Show, SpongeBob SquarePants and Yellowstone all live on Paramount Skydance channels.

“We’re all seeing the pay cable business shift over to streaming, so there will be a lot of conversations about what iconic franchises we want to continue, maybe shift to streaming, etc.,” he said. “We’re [six] days in, but I do feel like there’s a lot to preserve there.”

Shell added that rather than seeing the cable outlets (BET, CMT, Comedy Central, Logo, MTV, Nickelodeon, Paramount Network, Pop, Smithsonian, TV Land and VH1, plus premium outlet Showtime) as “declining linear assets,” Paramount Skydance will take the approach that they are “brands we have to redefine.”

Responding to a question about BET — which has been the subject of persistent talk about a possible sale in recent years — CEO David Ellison said his intention is to keep the company Skydance and its partner RedBird Capital purchased intact.

“We had this conversation with Shari [Redstone] when we had the first meeting about the company — our intention is to keep the company together and invest through that lens long term,” he said.

How does Skydance approach co-production agreements with cable networks?

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the Shifting Sands of Cable: A New Landscape for Content Creation

The cable industry is in the midst of a dramatic transformation.Customary television viewership is declining as streaming services gain momentum. However,this evolving surroundings presents unique opportunities for content creators. Executives from Skydance, a major player in the entertainment industry, recently offered insights into their vision for the future of cable content production, focusing on strategic partnerships and innovative approaches.

The key takeaway from their discussions centers on adapting to change. This includes embracing new distribution models and focusing on high-quality content that resonates with audiences across various platforms. The focus is shifting from simply producing content “for cable” to creating content that works *within* the existing cable infrastructure, but also is nimble enough adapt to the evolving demands of the digital age and streaming media.

Skydance’s Strategic Alliances: The Core of Their Strategy

Skydance emphasizes the importance of strategic alliances in this changing landscape. They recognize that success hinges on collaboration, particularly with established cable networks and emerging digital platforms. Building robust partnerships is crucial to reach the widest possible audience and ensure content longevity. Some ways they are achieving this are:

• Co-Production Agreements: Skydance teams with cable networks to co-produce shows,sharing risk and leveraging the network’s distribution channels. This partnership allows for greater financial versatility and can improve content quality.
• distribution Partnerships: Securing distribution deals with various streaming services to ensure content accessibility and maximize revenue streams.
• Tech Integration: Partnering with technology firms that specialize in content delivery and user experience optimization, improving viewer engagement.

These cable content collaborations are crucial for Skydance to navigate the frequently enough-complex terrain of content distribution.These relationships facilitate the creation of a production ecosystem that encourages growth as more viewers migrate to different platforms.

key Considerations for Cable Content Production in 2025

Skydance executives highlighted several key factors shaping the future of cable content:

• Data-Driven Insights: Utilizing data analytics to understand audience preferences,customize programming,and measure content performance. The goal is a better understanding of content that will attract the audience.
• Content Diversity: Creating a diverse lineup of content that appeals to various demographics and interests, crucial for attracting a broad viewership.
• Innovation in Storytelling: Embracing new storytelling formats, interactive experiences, and virtual reality to engage audiences in exciting ways.
• Budget Optimization: Implementing more efficient production methods without sacrificing content quality.

The ability to adapt and change is critical in cable content production. This encompasses production styles,distribution and marketing strategies – content producers must be agile and forward-thinking.

building Audience Engagement for the Future

The digital landscape demands higher levels of engagement. Skydane is building for the future, utilizing these strategies:

• Interactive Content: Integrating interactive elements into their programs, such as choose-your-own-adventure storylines and audience polls.
• Social Media Integration: Using social media to promote their content, build a community around their shows, and gather feedback from viewers.
• Personalized recommendations: Using algorithms to provide viewers with tailored content suggestions, increasing viewership and retention. This is especially valuable for cable content creators.

Practical Tips for Cable Content Producers

Based on Skydance’s insights, aspiring content creators can take several steps to thrive in the evolving cable landscape:

1. understand Your Audience: Research your target demographic’s viewing habits, preferences, and the platforms they use.
2. Develop a Strong concept: Create original, high-quality content that stands out from the crowd. Focus on story, characters, and production value.
3. Build Strategic Partnerships: Collaborate with cable networks, cable channels, and digital platforms for distribution.
4. Embrace Data Analytics: Use data to assess content performance and target audience attention, iterate on your strategies, and optimize your content accordingly.
5. Stay Flexible: Be ready to adapt to changing distribution models and technological developments.

the Future is Dynamic: Skydance’s Vision

Skydance’s vision is built on a foundation of flexibility, data driven