Former US President Donald Trump has lashed out at Paramount Global and Skydance Media, accusing the companies of prioritising diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives over merit in their recent merger negotiations.
In a fiery statement, Trump claimed the entertainment giants were engaging in "discriminatory practices" by allegedly favouring DEI-driven hiring and corporate policies. The remarks come amid heightened political scrutiny over corporate diversity programmes in the US.
Merger Under Scrutiny
The proposed $8 billion merger between Paramount and Skydance has been months in the making, with negotiations involving major stakeholders including Shari Redstone's National Amusements. Trump's intervention adds another layer of controversy to the high-profile deal.
"They're choosing employees based on race and gender rather than talent and capability," Trump asserted, without providing specific evidence. His comments echo broader conservative criticisms of DEI programmes in corporate America.
Industry Reactions
Entertainment insiders have dismissed Trump's claims as unfounded, noting that both companies have long-standing commitments to diversity in an industry historically dominated by white male executives.
"The suggestion that qualified candidates are being overlooked is simply not reflected in the reality of Hollywood's hiring practices," said one studio executive who asked to remain anonymous.
The controversy emerges as several major corporations face legal challenges to their diversity policies following the US Supreme Court's 2023 ruling against affirmative action in college admissions.
Political Ramifications
Political analysts suggest Trump's comments are strategically timed to appeal to his conservative base ahead of the November election, where corporate diversity policies have become a cultural flashpoint.
"This is part of a broader narrative being pushed by some Republican candidates," noted political commentator Maria Gonzalez. "They're framing DEI initiatives as reverse discrimination to mobilise voters."
Neither Paramount nor Skydance has issued an official response to Trump's allegations at the time of writing.
