Ynon Kreiz steps down as Mattel CEO, joins David Ellison's Paramount in a senior management role, as the company awaits final approval for the Warner Bros. Discovery merger
- Ynon Kreiz is stepping down as CEO of Mattel after eight years
- The company is awaiting final approval for the Warner Bros. Discovery merger
The $111 billion Warner Bros. Discovery merger is still pending, with Paramount awaiting a judge's approval of the company's settlement of the antitrust lawsuit brought by 12 state attorneys general.
The Timeline
- Kreiz joined Mattel in 2018, after exiting Disney in 2016
- He oversaw Mattel Studios' first theatrical release, 'Barbie' starring Margot Robbie, which was the top global box office film of 2023
- Mattel has credited Kreiz with boosting its market share across key toy categories
Kreiz's Background
Kreiz co-founded and was chairman and CEO of Fox Kids Europe, and has a long history in the entertainment industry.
Paramount's Plans
Casey Bloys is poised to assume oversight of the combined Paramount-Warner Bros. streaming business, as Cindy Holland announced her departure from her role running Paramount+ and other direct-to-consumer platforms.
The Next Development
A judge last Thursday said she would rule on the proposed consent decree in 'due course', as the company awaits final approval for the Warner Bros. Discovery merger.
Kreiz's move to Paramount marks a significant shift in the entertainment industry, as the company looks to consolidate its streaming business and expand its reach.
As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, the impact of Kreiz's move on the industry's future is yet to be seen. However, one thing is certain - Kreiz's experience and expertise will be a valuable asset to Paramount.
The Warner Bros. Discovery merger has been a long time coming, and its final approval is eagerly anticipated by the industry. Once the merger is complete, the combined company will be one of the largest media conglomerates in the world, with a vast array of assets and a significant presence in the global market.
Kreiz's departure from Mattel marks the end of an era for the company, which has undergone significant changes during his tenure. Under his leadership, Mattel has expanded its reach and diversified its portfolio, with a focus on digital transformation and innovation.
As Kreiz takes on his new role at Paramount, he will be joining a company that is also undergoing significant changes. The merger with Warner Bros. Discovery will bring together two of the largest media companies in the world, creating a powerhouse with a vast array of assets and a significant presence in the global market.
The impact of Kreiz's move on the entertainment industry will be significant, and it will be interesting to see how he navigates his new role at Paramount. With his experience and expertise, he is well-positioned to make a significant contribution to the company's success.
It's worth noting that Kreiz's departure from Mattel comes at a time when the company is facing increased competition in the toy market. According to a report by Bloomberg, Mattel's market share has been declining in recent years, and the company has been struggling to keep up with the likes of Hasbro and LEGO.
Despite these challenges, Kreiz's tenure at Mattel has been marked by significant achievements. Under his leadership, the company has expanded its reach and diversified its portfolio, with a focus on digital transformation and innovation. The company has also made significant investments in its digital platforms, including the launch of a new e-commerce platform and the expansion of its online presence.
Kreiz's move to Paramount marks a significant shift in the entertainment industry, and it will be interesting to see how he navigates his new role. With his experience and expertise, he is well-positioned to make a significant contribution to the company's success.
Sources
- Variety: David Ellison Recruits Mattel’s Ynon Kreiz for Senior Role at Merged Paramount-Warner Bros.
- Seekingalpha: Mattel CEO Kreiz may take senior role at Paramount-Warner Bros








