Actor John Leguizamo has publicly called on Skydance chief David Ellison to consider broader interests as he assumes leadership of the merged Paramount and Warner Bros. entity. Speaking at the Critics Choice Association’s annual celebration event, Leguizamo expressed concerns about the company’s direction and urged Ellison to think beyond personal financial gain.
Leguizamo specifically referenced the merger’s terms, which include a five-year prohibition on selling Paramount Studios or Warner Bros. lots in California. However, he argued this timeframe is insufficient, noting that industry professionals require longer-term stability for planning their futures. He emphasized that the film and television production industry should remain anchored in Los Angeles and called for support to strengthen rather than diminish the sector.
The actor was among over 4,000 entertainment figures who signed an open letter earlier in April opposing the Paramount-Skydance acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. That letter, published in the New York Times and on BlocktheMerger.com, raised concerns that the merger would compromise industry integrity, independence, and diversity while reducing competition. The signatory list included numerous prominent directors, actors, and producers.
Leguizamo received the Career Achievement Award at the event, delivering remarks about his four-decade career and expressing commitment to improving representation of Latin Americans in entertainment. He received the honor from director Gregory Nava. The Critics Choice Association event also recognized other industry figures across multiple categories, including breakthrough and supporting performers, directors, and producers.
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