Paramount+ and Pluto TV will merge into a single platform starting in 2026

With the official closing of the purchase of Paramount by Skydance, the iconic media company has entered a new stage. David Ellison, newly appointed president and CEO of what is now called the new Paramount, made it clear what the priority will be: more investment in streaming and premium content.

The announcement was formalized on Thursday, August 7, when Ellison shared a public letter detailing the roadmap for this transformation. According to his own words, "no change will be more decisive" than the evolution of streaming platforms.

The plan includes turning Paramount+ and Pluto TV into robust and profitable global platforms, for which investment in movies, series, sports, news, and video games will be increased.

The strategy aims to build audience loyalty with exclusive content. In particular, sports will play a key role as a generator of engagement, decreasing the cancellation rate and increasing revenue per user.

Technological integration and renewed structure

One of the most relevant announcements was the technological unification of Pluto TV and Paramount+ starting in 2026, where the free AVOD platform will serve as a gateway to attract subscribers to the paid service.

The migration of the entire company to a single technological infrastructure was also confirmed. This will seek to improve performance, optimize decision-making, and reduce operating costs.

Meanwhile, Paramount will operate under a new organizational structure with three business units: studios, direct-to-consumer, and TV media. This redesign aims to streamline strategic decisions, accelerate processes, and achieve internal synergies.

According to Ellison, the unification of the studios will allow for more comprehensive decisions regarding production and licensing, as well as attracting creative talent and strengthening relationships with external partners.

Cost reduction and new business vision

Ellison confirmed that, as part of the efficiency process, there will be workforce reductions. This and other adjustments will allow the company to reach—and even surpass—the previously announced US$2 billion in real efficiencies.

Other areas where cost optimization will be sought include real estate, acquisitions, and workflows. The goal is to redirect those resources toward high-growth and high-return initiatives.

The new vision combines the creative heart of Hollywood with the innovation of Silicon Valley, in the words of the CEO himself. With this approach, the company intends to leave uncertainty behind and establish itself as a global leader in entertainment and technology.