Unscripted

More about the book

This gripping account reveals the tumultuous power struggle within Paramount, the entertainment giant controlled by the Redstone family, highlighting the dysfunction and deceit that jeopardized its future. In 2016, the company faced a precarious situation as its 93-year-old founder, Sumner M. Redstone, confronted a public lawsuit from former companion Manuela Herzer, exposing his declining health and judgment. Sumner, a formidable media mogul, had been a demanding boss and father, leading to tensions when his daughter, Shari, took control. She encountered hostility from boards and management who had long heard her father disparage her. Les Moonves, the influential CEO of CBS, felt particularly threatened and conspired with allies to undermine Shari's authority. Meanwhile, revelations of Moonves' sexual misconduct began to surface, prompting him to attempt to suppress the stories. This narrative offers an explosive and candid look at the inner workings of two public companies and a wealthy family undergoing significant upheaval. As the traditional business model falters amid technological advances and societal changes, reporters James B. Stewart and Rachel Abrams expose the fierce battle for power and the ensuing fallout.