Chris Aronson Exiting as Paramount’s Theatrical Distribution Chief

Chris Aronson is departing his post at Paramount, where he served for six years as president of domestic distribution.

Aronson’s exit on Dec. 1 follows Paramount’s recent merger with Skydance, which has resulted in several significant executive shuffles at the studio. Aronson made the announcement ahead of the Cinema United Fall Summit, which will be hosted on the studio’s lot on Tuesday evening for members of exhibition.

“Everyone knows that domestic distribution is the locomotive that drives the theatrical train, and this team represents the proud history of Paramount Pictures in all the best ways possible, earning the respect of exhibitors and other distributors alike,” Aronson wrote in a memo to staff. “I will always feel a part of this family, and wherever my next chapter takes me, I will be cheering you on to success as I know you will continue to carry on the exemplary work that you do.”

A respected executive, Aronson is known for his humor, blunt talk, deep ties to the exhibition industry and costumed appearances at CinemaCon. During his run at Paramount, Aronson oversaw the theatrical release of hits such as “Top Gun: Maverick,” which is the highest-grossing film in the studio’s history, as well as “Sonic the Hedgehog” and “Smile.”

Prior to joining Paramount, Aronson served as domestic distribution chief at 20th Century Fox, until the Walt Disney Company bought the studio in 2018. At Fox, he spearheaded the rollout of such blockbusters as “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “Life of Pi,” “Avatar” and “Deadpool.” Aronson previously worked at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Distribution Company and Rentrak Corporation, where he started their theatrical division which provides comprehensive box office data collection, analysis and reporting for the film industry.

“I believe more than ever in the power of the theatrical experience, and I know that if we in distribution continue to collaborate with our partners in exhibition, not being afraid to be agents of change, we can continue to propel moviegoing forward,” Aronson ended his memo before quoting the bandleader of the Titanic. “To paraphrase Wallace Hartley: It has been a privilege playing with you.“