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Published by: Columbia CaseWorks, Columbia Business School
Originally published in: 2018
Version: December 14, 2018
Length: 21 pages
Data source: Published sources

Abstract

Sumner Redstone was one of the most important figures in the evolution of the media industry during the twentieth century. He saw opportunities and seized them, exponentially growing his father's drive-in theater business to become one of the world's largest media conglomerates, with two publicly traded companies - CBS and Viacom - at its core. His larger-than-life personality and trials and tribulations kept the tabloid press more than busy. But Sumner's story was never his alone. Despite his megalomaniacal desire to take all the credit himself, his story is inextricably entwined with that of his family. This case study highlights the evolution of this complex family enterprise over several generations.

Teaching and learning

This item is suitable for undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Geographical setting

Region:
Americas
Country:
United States

Featured company

Viacom
Type:
Self-owned
Industry:
Media

About

Abstract

Sumner Redstone was one of the most important figures in the evolution of the media industry during the twentieth century. He saw opportunities and seized them, exponentially growing his father's drive-in theater business to become one of the world's largest media conglomerates, with two publicly traded companies - CBS and Viacom - at its core. His larger-than-life personality and trials and tribulations kept the tabloid press more than busy. But Sumner's story was never his alone. Despite his megalomaniacal desire to take all the credit himself, his story is inextricably entwined with that of his family. This case study highlights the evolution of this complex family enterprise over several generations.

Teaching and learning

This item is suitable for undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

Settings

Geographical setting

Region:
Americas
Country:
United States

Featured company

Viacom
Type:
Self-owned
Industry:
Media

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