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Paramount Global Seeking Strategic Partner, Potential Sale

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Friday, January 9th 2026 at 13:24 GMT by TheWrap

Los Angeles, CA - January 9th, 2026 - Paramount Global, the media conglomerate behind iconic brands like MTV, Nickelodeon, and the Paramount Pictures film studio, is actively pursuing a strategic partner, a move that could reshape the company's future and potentially lead to a full or partial sale, sources confirm. This development comes after failed merger discussions with Warner Bros. Discovery and reflects the increasing pressure on traditional media companies to adapt to the rapidly evolving entertainment landscape.

The search, spearheaded by controlling shareholder Shari Redstone, is still in its preliminary stages, with several potential buyers already engaging in discussions. While a minority investment isn't off the table, sources indicate Paramount Global is seriously considering offers that include a majority stake, or even a complete acquisition of the company. This represents a significant shift for Redstone, who has maintained control of the company - initially built by her grandfather, Sumner Redstone - for decades.

The media industry has been in a state of flux for the past several years, characterized by the rise of streaming services, cord-cutting, and shifting consumer habits. Giants like Disney and Warner Bros. Discovery have already undertaken substantial restructuring efforts to navigate these challenges. Paramount Global has not been immune to these pressures, with its stock price experiencing a considerable decline in recent months, prompting investor scrutiny and demands for improved financial performance.

Several firms have emerged as potential suitors, including private equity giants Apollo and Cerberus. These firms, known for their aggressive investment strategies and operational expertise, could provide Paramount Global with the capital infusion needed to compete effectively in the streaming era and invest in new technologies. The company's valuable assets, including its vast content library, established brands, and production capabilities, are attracting considerable interest.

However, the potential sale or partnership isn't without its complexities. Redstone's willingness to relinquish some control over the company she inherited is a central point of negotiation. For years, she has fiercely defended the family's ownership, but the current market conditions may necessitate a difficult compromise. Analysts suggest that a strategic partner could provide not only financial resources but also crucial expertise in areas such as data analytics, direct-to-consumer distribution, and international expansion.

The potential sale of MTV, a cornerstone of the company's brand identity for decades, has been specifically discussed. While seemingly counterintuitive to divest a such an iconic property, industry experts suggest that MTV, while still possessing brand recognition, may be more valuable as part of a larger, diversified portfolio than as a standalone asset within Paramount Global. Nickelodeon, with its consistent appeal to younger audiences and strong merchandising opportunities, is also being considered as a key asset in any potential deal. The Paramount film studio, possessing a rich history and ongoing blockbuster potential, is naturally among the most coveted properties.

The coming weeks are expected to be crucial as Paramount Global evaluates offers and determines its best path forward. A decision will likely hinge on striking a balance between maximizing shareholder value, preserving the company's legacy, and ensuring its long-term viability. The outcome of these negotiations will undoubtedly have significant implications for the future of Paramount Global and the broader media industry. Many observers believe the situation highlights the precarious position of legacy media companies struggling to adapt to a world dominated by streaming and digital content delivery. It remains to be seen if Paramount Global can successfully navigate this turbulent period and emerge as a dominant player in the new media landscape, or if it will become another casualty of the ongoing industry consolidation.