Slate News David Ellison, Eldest Boy
Jan 25, 2026
Reeves Widemann, features writer at New York Magazine, breaks down David Ellison’s rise from Flyboys to boardroom deals. He tracks Ellison’s blockbuster taste, Skydance’s hit-or-miss film record, the role of family money in buying studios, and the tech-forward pitch behind major acquisitions. Short, sharp scenes on ambition, scale, and how far one will go to build a modern Hollywood empire.
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How Flyboys Launched Ellison's Hollywood Path
- David Ellison got a role in Flyboys after his father's funding rescued the stalled production.
- The film bombed and Ellison later said the poor reception left him depressed and hospitalized.
Rapid Rise From Actor To Studio Owner
- David transitioned from struggling actor to influential studio owner within two decades.
- He now ranks among the youngest people controlling a major Hollywood studio.
Family Capital Met David's Positioning
- Larry Ellison's wealth made the Paramount purchase feasible while David built credibility and positioned himself.
- People gave David a chance because he loved movies and could invest for the long term.