In an exclusive report, it has been revealed that as former NBCUniversal CEO Jeff Shell prepares for his new role as President of Paramount Global under the proposed Skydance-Paramount merger, efforts are being made to uncover any potential negative information about his past.

Shell left NBCU in April 2023 following a complaint of inappropriate conduct by CNBC anchor Hadley Gamble. Upon the announcement of David Ellison's acquisition of National Amusements, it was also revealed that Shell would assume the position of President at Paramount Global.

Rumors have circulated in recent weeks regarding other incidents involving Shell and female employees at NBCU. However, investigations conducted by NBCU human resources found no evidence of wrongdoing. These allegations were also reportedly made known to the Ellisons.

Despite attempts to portray Shell as a Les Moonves redux, sources suggest that these rumors lack substantial evidence, with media outlets such as The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Hollywood trades still attempting to gather information.

Among the rumored incidents in Shell's file at NBCUniversal were alleged inappropriate photos on his phone and a meeting with a Universal film label executive at a London hotel bar. However, no concrete evidence was found to support any misconduct by Shell in these instances.

The potential appointment of former Pixar executive Jon Lasseter, who was dismissed by Disney in 2018 for a history of inappropriate conduct, has raised concerns about Shell's role at Paramount.

It is worth noting that these rumors surrounding Shell have emerged during the 45-day go-shop period for Paramount, during which other bidders can be solicited. One such party rumored to be interested is Edgar Bronfman Jr. If no other bids are accepted by Paramount, the Skydance merger, which involves an $8 billion investment from David Ellison and other parties, is expected to be finalized in the first half of 2025.

Sources suggest that one former studio executive has expressed a desire to regain their former position in the industry, potentially fueling some of the rumors surrounding Shell. Additionally, it has been noted that some high-level corporate companions from NBCU/Comcast are displeased with Shell's new role at a rival studio.

An individual familiar with the situation stated, "Shell made one mistake, and he paid for it by losing his job at NBCUniversal."

As the go-shop period nears its end and potential bidders are being considered, it remains to be seen how these rumors and allegations will impact Shell's new position at Paramount Global. The proposed merger with Skydance requires standard government approvals from the DOJ, SEC, and FCC.

The Paramount Global team is expected to carefully evaluate any information that comes to light during this period, ensuring due diligence before finalizing any decisions.