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Paramount+ Hires Government Affairs Expert Amid Regulatory Scrutiny

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. ent-affairs-expert-amid-regulatory-scrutiny.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 17:50 GMT by TheWrap
      Locale: UNITED STATES

LOS ANGELES - In a move signaling a proactive approach to navigating an increasingly complex regulatory landscape, Paramount+ has appointed Jonathan Kott as Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, effective immediately. The news, first reported by TheWrap, comes at a pivotal time for streaming services, which are facing mounting scrutiny regarding content moderation, data privacy, and fair competition.

Kott joins Paramount+ from Versant Ventures, where he served as Managing Director. His background is steeped in the intersection of media and government, having previously held positions at both NBCUniversal and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). At Versant Ventures, Kott specialized in guiding portfolio companies through policy challenges and orchestrating lobbying efforts, specifically within the digital media, telecommunications, and technology sectors. He brings a wealth of experience in understanding the intricate web of regulations impacting these rapidly evolving industries.

Reporting directly to Christina Scheppelmann, Chief Communications Officer at Paramount Global, Kott's role will be critical in shaping Paramount+'s strategy concerning key policy issues. Scheppelmann highlighted Kott's "tremendous addition to Paramount+'s leadership team," emphasizing the "invaluable experience and insights" he offers. This suggests Paramount+ recognizes the urgent need for a seasoned government affairs expert to advocate for its interests and help navigate a challenging environment.

The timing of this appointment is no coincidence. Streaming platforms like Paramount+, Netflix, Disney+, and HBO Max are increasingly under the microscope of regulators both domestically and internationally. Concerns range from the algorithms used to curate content and potential biases within those algorithms, to the protection of user data and the impact of streaming on traditional media businesses. The rise of streaming has fundamentally altered the entertainment landscape, disrupting long-established models and creating new areas of vulnerability from a regulatory standpoint.

Content moderation is a particularly thorny issue. Streaming services are wrestling with questions of free speech versus responsible content distribution, particularly concerning misinformation, hate speech, and potentially harmful content aimed at children. Regulators are pushing for greater transparency in how these platforms make decisions about what content is allowed and what is removed. The debate is often complicated by differing legal frameworks across various jurisdictions. Kott's experience at the FCC, where he would have been intimately familiar with broadcast standards and regulations, will be a significant asset in this regard.

Data privacy is another major area of concern. Streaming services collect vast amounts of data on user viewing habits, which is used to personalize recommendations and target advertising. However, this data is also vulnerable to breaches and misuse. Regulators are increasingly focused on ensuring that streaming companies have robust data security measures in place and are transparent about how they collect, use, and share user information. The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) and other similar regulations are setting a precedent for stricter data protection standards.

Competition is also coming under scrutiny. The consolidation of media companies and the dominance of a few major players in the streaming market have raised concerns about potential anti-competitive practices. Regulators are examining whether these companies are using their market power to stifle competition and harm consumers. This includes looking at exclusive content deals, pricing strategies, and potential bundling practices.

Versant Ventures, the firm Kott previously worked for, is a growth equity firm specializing in digital media, software and technology - underscoring the depth of his network and understanding within these vital sectors. This background positions him well to anticipate regulatory challenges and proactively engage with policymakers.

Kott's appointment suggests Paramount+ is preparing to actively engage in these critical policy debates. The company understands that its future success depends not only on creating compelling content but also on navigating the complex and ever-changing regulatory environment. His role will be instrumental in ensuring that Paramount+ can continue to innovate and grow while complying with all applicable laws and regulations.