What Next: TBD | Tech, power, and the future David Ellison, Eldest Boy
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Jan 25, 2026 Reeves Weidemann, features writer at New York Magazine who reported on David Ellison and Skydance. He traces Ellison’s rise from a failed film start to owning Paramount and aiming for Warner Bros. He explores family dynamics with Larry Ellison, David’s taste for big blockbusters, the business strategy behind studio buys, and the tech and AI ambitions tied to building a media empire.
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Early Hollywood Setback
- David Ellison acted in and helped finance Flyboys, a World War I movie that bombed on release.
- The film's failure left him depressed and briefly hospitalized when his heart went out of rhythm.
From Actor To Studio Owner
- David Ellison transformed from a struggling actor into a studio head after Skydance acquired Paramount.
- He is now one of the youngest people to control a major Hollywood studio and is pursuing bigger deals like Warner Bros.
Flight Lessons Built A Bond
- David grew closer to his father Larry Ellison in his teens through flying lessons and aerobatics.
- That bond and access to wealth later enabled their business partnership and David's film ambitions.