Warner Bros CEO’s Success Formula: The Winner of Netflix-Paramount Battle

Warner Bros CEO, 65-year-old David Zaslav, was one of the highest-paid executives in the media industry in 2024, earning $51.9 million. The new contract he signed this year grants him stock options worth over $420 million. If either Netflix’s $27.75 or Paramount’s $30 offer is accepted, Zaslav’s fortune could exceed $1 billion. This would place him among non-founder billionaire CEOs like Tim Cook, Satya Nadella, and Jamie Dimon.

THE RULE THAT SHAPED HIS CAREER

The most defining principle in Zaslav’s business life stems from an experience he had while playing tennis in his youth. When he relaxed his training during years when he was seen as a great talent, he suddenly fell behind. His legendary coach Althea Gibson bluntly told him he “wasn’t working hard enough.” This was a turning point for Zaslav:

“By the time I was 14, everyone I used to beat was starting to beat me. That day, I promised myself I would never be the one who works less.“

For this reason, Zaslav frequently shares this advice with younger generations: “Talent is just an entry ticket. The rest is hard work.”

INTENSE DISCIPLINE STARTING AT 4:45 AM

Zaslav’s lifestyle reflects this philosophy. He wakes up every morning at 4:45 AM, walks for an hour and a half from his Manhattan home to his office, making phone calls or listening to music along the way. He says the key to success is doing work you love with passion and constantly improving yourself.

Zaslav’s advice to graduates during his speech at Boston University is summarized by that famous phrase that has enabled his income to multiply during Hollywood’s most critical acquisition process:

“Create your own opportunities. And never, ever let anyone outwork you.”