Paramount Global will pursue simultaneous talks with both Skydance Media and Sony Pictures/Apollo Global Management regarding potential mergers and acquisitions. The 30-day exclusive negotiation period with Skydance ended without a deal on May 3rd, leaving an opening for Paramount to consider Sony/Apollo's all-cash $26 billion offer. Regulatory concerns exist around the Sony/Apollo deal given the Biden administration's opposition to media consolidation. Skydance CEO David Ellison may withdraw from negotiations if Paramount pursues Sony/Apollo deeply instead of continuing exclusive Skydance talks.