Bobby Kotick, the controversial former CEO of Call of Duty publisher Activision-Blizzard, is entering a surprising new role. As film companies Warner Bros. and Paramount complete their massive $111 billion merger, a new board of directors is being appointed to lead the new parent company, Skydance. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Kotick, alongside investor and philanthropist Laurene Powell Jobs, will join the board.

As of yesterday, Paramount officially completed its takeover of Warner Bros. This has massive ramifications for the film and tv industry, but it affects video games as well – WB Games publishes the Batman: Arkham series, Hogwarts Legacy, TT Games' Lego series, and Mortal Kombat, to name a few. 

David Ellison, Skydance Chairman and CEO, released a statement alongside the announcement. With regards to Kotick, Ellison said the following:

Bobby led a global entertainment company through three decades of sustained growth, and he brings real perspective on building enduring franchises and connecting with fans. His record of pairing bold strategic moves with disciplined capital allocation is exactly the experience we need as we bring our businesses together. Tony has led at the highest levels of government, respected for his intellect, strategic vision and ability to bring people together around bold, forward-looking ideas. His global perspective and insight will be invaluable as we turn ambition into results.

Kotick was the head of Activision-Blizzard during the very public lawsuits alleging the company had fostered a toxic work culture rampant with sexual harassment. You can read about the details here , but be warned that some of the allegations are disturbing.

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