Warner Bros. Discovery recently announced the names and leadership structures for the two independent companies that will result from its planned separation in mid-2026. The move marks a new chapter for the media conglomerate, creating two distinct entities with focused missions.
The first company, «Streaming & Studios,» will be named Warner Bros., paying homage to its over 100-year history of storytelling. This new entity will house iconic brands such as Warner Bros. Television, Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group, DC Studios, HBO, HBO Max, and Warner Bros. Gaming Studios. It will be led by the current WBD President and CEO, David Zaslav, with a seasoned executive team. Key leaders will include Pam Abdy and Mike De Luca as Co-Chairs and CEOs of the Motion Picture Group, Casey Bloys for HBO and HBO Max, and Channing Dungey for the Television Group. James Gunn and Peter Safran will serve as Co-Chairmen and CEOs of DC Studios. JB Perrette will oversee Streaming and Games, while other senior appointments include Bruce Campbell as COO and Robert Gibbs as Chief Communications & Public Affairs Officer. The company is currently searching for a CFO and a Chief People & Culture Officer.
Zaslav stated that the new Warner Bros. will build on its creative legacy while expanding its global footprint through premium content and a dynamic executive team.
The second company, the «Global Networks» division, will be rebranded as Discovery Global. This name is intended to emphasize the strength and recognition of the Discovery brand worldwide in entertainment, news, and sports. Gunnar Wiedenfels, WBD’s current CFO, will serve as President and CEO of Discovery Global. The new company will be the home for WBD’s global broadcast, cable, and digital networks, including marquee brands like CNN, TNT Sports in the U.S., Discovery Channel, and major free-to-air channels across Europe. It will also manage digital platforms such as Discovery+ and Bleacher Report. With content delivered in 68 languages and reaching 1.1 billion unique viewers in 200 countries, Discovery Global is positioned as a major international media force. The leadership team supporting Wiedenfels includes Gerhard Zeiler, who will serve as President for the US, UK, and Germany, and Mark Thompson, who will continue as Chairman and CEO of CNN Worldwide. Luis Silberwasser will lead TNT Sports, while Kasia Kieli and Fernando Medin will oversee international functions. Discovery Global is currently seeking a Chief Communications & Public Affairs Officer to complete its executive structure.
Wiedenfels expressed confidence in the company’s trajectory, citing the value of its global brands and the experience of its leadership.
