A former Paramount executive alleges reverse discrimination in a new federal lawsuit, claiming he was fired due to his race and age.
Joseph Jerome, a longtime Senior Vice President for Entertainment Tonight, has accused Paramount Global of using its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies to unfairly target older white employees.
The suit, filed in California federal court, challenges Paramount’s diversity hiring initiatives and comes amid increasing national scrutiny over corporate DEI programs.
This marks the latest in a series of legal challenges reshaping how major media companies approach workplace diversity.
Jerome worked with Paramount and its subsidiaries for over 30 years. He was among three CBS Media Ventures attorneys terminated last year—all of whom were white and over 50.
According to the complaint, Jerome’s position was filled by a 25-year-old Black law school graduate, while his two colleagues were replaced by younger Asian attorneys.
The lawsuit cites a meeting with a CBS News president, during which management reportedly discussed hiring younger staff to “appeal to younger viewers.”
Shortly afterward, Jerome claims he was criticized for “thinking old,” an event he believes signaled a deliberate effort to remove senior employees under the guise of DEI compliance.
Industry Reactions and Legal Context
Legal analysts say this case could test the limits of corporate diversity efforts following recent U.S. Supreme Court rulings that have simplified how “majority” groups can sue employers for discrimination.
“Companies are now walking a fine line between inclusion goals and compliance with employment law,” said a labor attorney interviewed by Reuters.
The lawsuit follows a similar case earlier this year, when CBS Studios settled allegations of reverse discrimination against white male employees.
A Paramount spokesperson said the company “does not comment on pending litigation” but remains “committed to fostering a fair and inclusive workplace.”
Shifting DEI Landscape
The Paramount case arrives at a pivotal moment for corporate DEI programs, as businesses nationwide revise policies that tie bonuses or promotions to diversity metrics.
Experts warn that overly prescriptive inclusion goals may invite legal challenges if they appear to disadvantage any demographic group.
If successful, Jerome’s case could influence how major entertainment companies like Paramount, NBCUniversal, and Warner Bros. structure future hiring, promotion, and retention frameworks.
The lawsuit could become a landmark in employment law, shaping future definitions of workplace fairness and reverse discrimination.
What’s Next for the Case
The case, filed in California federal court, will move forward with preliminary hearings expected early next year.
Observers expect other media executives to watch closely, given the potential ripple effects across Hollywood’s HR policies.
For now, Paramount continues to face questions about balancing its DEI goals with equitable treatment of all employees.
Sources
Reuters Legal Reports
TheWrap Entertainment Business Desk
Variety Industry Insider
CBS News Corporate Statements
U.S. Supreme Court Employment Law Docket
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