Archive · 11 Jun 2025
CBS Studios' Aquila and Nick Bernstein Leave Amid Paramount Layoffs
Big changes are happening at CBS and Paramount!
Deborah Aquila, who finds actors for CBS shows, is leaving as part of company-wide layoffs.
Nick Bernstein, a top executive for late-night shows, is also departing now that his show 'After Midnight' is ending.
These moves are part of a larger plan to streamline the companies, especially with a shift towards streaming.
Aquila will no longer be in charge of CBS casting as EVP Claudia Lyon takes over the streaming series casting duties.
Some other departments such as Comedy Central and MTV are being affected by this event.
Deborah Aquila, EVP of Casting at CBS Studios, departs due to Paramount layoffs.
Nick Bernstein, CBS's SVP of late-night programming, is leaving after the end of 'After Midnight'.
The layoffs are part of a plan to streamline CBS and Paramount.
Aquila previously oversaw casting for both CBS Studios and Paramount TV Studios.
Claudia Lyon will now oversee casting for all CBS Studios and CBS streaming series.
- Who
- Deborah Aquila, Nick Bernstein, and multiple CBS Studios and Paramount staff members.
- What
- Departures and restructuring due to company layoffs and show endings.
- When
- Announced and taking place this week.
- Where
- CBS Studios and Paramount
- Why
- To streamline operations and prioritize investments in streaming, given industry-wide declines in linear TV.
- Deborah Aquila's Role
- EVP and Head of Casting, CBS Studios
- Nick Bernstein's Role
- SVP of Late Night Programming, West Coast, CBS
- Paramount Workforce Reduction
- 3.5%
- 'After Midnight' Finale Air Date
- June 12
- Taking over streaming series casting
- Claudia Lyon