Paramount settles Trump lawsuit over Harris interview for $16 million

Paramount has agreed to pay $16 million to settle a lawsuit filed by US President Donald Trump over a 60 Minutes interview with former Vice President Kamala Harris.

Trump alleged the October 2024 broadcast was deceptively edited to favor Democrats during the election.

The settlement, earmarked for Trump’s presidential library, comes as Paramount seeks approval for its $8.4 billion merger with Skydance Media. It includes no admission of wrongdoing or apology from the company.

Trump had initially sought $10 billion in damages, later raising the claim to $20 billion. The FCC, which oversees broadcast licenses, is currently reviewing the merger deal, and one commissioner warned the settlement could set a dangerous precedent for press freedom.

The lawsuit was among several recent cases Trump filed against major media outlets, including ABC News and Meta, both of which also reached settlements. Critics, including several US senators, condemned Paramount’s move as a capitulation that could embolden future attacks on the press.

Paramount said it will release interview transcripts of future presidential candidates following broadcasts, with national security exceptions.