**Paramount Pictures' X Account Appears to be Hacked, Displays Pro-Fascist Regime Message**
In a disturbing incident that has raised eyebrows across the entertainment industry, the official account for Paramount Pictures on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) was seemingly compromised yesterday. The hack saw someone rewriting the description in the account's bio to read: "Proud arm of the fascist regime."
The hacked account, which boasts nearly 3.5 million followers, comes hot on the heels of Paramount Skydance's hostile takeover bid for Warner Bros. Discovery. The move was announced just three days after Netflix and WBD reached an agreement under which the streamer would acquire WB's studios, HBO, HBO Max, and games divisions.
Paramount Pictures has been approached by Variety for comment on the matter, but at the time of writing, no response had been received. However, shortly after this article was published, the description for the Paramount Pictures account on X had changed back to its original: "The official X account for Paramount Pictures."
The hack raises questions about the security measures in place at the studio, particularly given the sensitive nature of the takeover bid and the high profile of the companies involved. It also comes amidst a backdrop of intense controversy surrounding Paramount's parent company, Skydance Media, which has been linked to several conservative figures and organizations.
David Ellison, co-CEO of Paramount Skydance, has been a long-time supporter of former President Donald Trump. In October, Trump praised Ellison, saying "he'll do a great job" as CEO of the merged company. The two have also reportedly been in close contact, with Ellison even announcing a deal worth $150 million to acquire conservative outlet The Free Press, which would be headed by journalist Bari Weiss.
Weiss's appointment has sparked speculation that the move was intended to improve CBS News' standing with Trump and the MAGA movement. Her first TV appearance as CBS News editor-in-chief will see her moderate a one-hour special with Erika Kirk, CEO of Turning Point USA – the conservative activist group founded by Charlie Kirk.
The incident has reignited concerns about the influence of conservative media on mainstream outlets and the growing divide between liberal and conservative ideologies in the entertainment industry. The hack also raises questions about the security measures in place at Paramount Pictures and whether they are adequate to protect against such incidents.
When asked about his stance on Paramount's takeover bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, Trump responded: "I don't know enough about it... I mean, none of them are particularly great friends of mine. You know, I want to do what's right."
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the increasing polarization and partisanship in the entertainment industry and the need for greater transparency and accountability from media outlets.