Perry Sook Keeps the Helm: Nexstar CEO's Contract Extended Through 2029

Nexstar Media Group just announced that its founder and long-time CEO, Perry Sook, will continue leading the company for another four years, eyeing massive growth and shaping the future of local broadcasting.

TL;DR: Quick Takes on Nexstar's Latest Big Move

• Perry Sook's employment agreement as Nexstar Media Group's Chairman and CEO has been extended through March 31, 2029.
• Sook, who founded Nexstar in 1996, is a key figure behind the company's massive growth, including over 40 acquisitions.
• This extension is crucial as Nexstar works to finalize its proposed $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna, a deal that could reshape the U.S. local TV landscape.

Big news dropping in the media world! Nexstar Media Group, the titan of local television, has officially announced that its visionary founder and current CEO, Perry Sook, is sticking around. His contract has been extended all the way through March 31, 2029, signaling a clear path forward for the company as it navigates a dynamic and ever-evolving media landscape.

For those keeping an eye on the broadcast industry, this isn't just another corporate announcement. Sook isn't just any CEO; he's the guy who started it all, building Nexstar from the ground up. His continued leadership means consistency and a steady hand during what promises to be a transformative period, especially with some huge deals on the horizon.

A Deep Dive into Nexstar's Incredible Journey Under Perry Sook's Leadership

Let's rewind a bit. Perry Sook kicked off Nexstar Media Group back in 1996. Can you believe it? He started with just a single radio station, and in less than three decades, he's transformed it into the undisputed number one local TV station owner across the entire U.S. That's a serious glow-up!

How did he do it? Well, Sook is known for his strategic smarts and has spearheaded more than 40 acquisitions during his time at the helm. These aren't small moves; they've systematically grown Nexstar's footprint and influence, making it a diversified media powerhouse.

Today, Nexstar's portfolio is pretty impressive. We're talking about:

• The CW Network: They hold majority control of the U.S.'s fifth-largest broadcast network, bringing us shows like "All American" and "Walker."
• NewsNation: A growing national cable news network aiming for unbiased reporting.
• Multicast Networks: Including Antenna TV and Rewind TV, serving up classic content.
• Investments: A significant 31.3% ownership stake in the popular TV Food Network.
• Digital Assets: Beyond their local TV station websites, they also own the respected political news outlet The Hill and NewsNationNow.com, making them a top 10 U.S. digital news property.

It's clear Sook has built an empire, and it hasn't gone unnoticed. In 2024, his total compensation package hit a hefty $35.9 million – a 23% jump from the previous year. This included substantial stock awards valued at $27.7 million and a cool $3.2 million cash bonus. While a big number, it reportedly ranked in the middle for major media CEOs, reflecting the scale and success of the company he built.

The Road Ahead: Navigating the Monumental Tegna Acquisition and FCC Hurdles

This contract extension couldn't come at a more crucial time for Nexstar. The company is currently deep into the process of acquiring rival station group Tegna in a colossal $6.2 billion deal. If approved, this merger would be a game-changer, fundamentally reshaping the local TV landscape in the United States.

Think about it: the proposed deal would boost Nexstar's station portfolio to reach an astonishing 80% of the U.S. population. That's huge! The only catch? This far exceeds the current regulatory limits set by the FCC, which cap station ownership at 39% of the national audience.

So, what's the plan? Sook and other local TV execs have been actively advocating for the FCC to scrap or at least significantly adjust this ownership cap. It's a big ask, and it's likely going to need some action from Congress to make it happen. The fate of this massive acquisition, expected to close in the second half of 2026, hinges on these regulatory approvals.

"The proposed acquisition of Tegna represents the next chapter in Nexstar’s growth story and with Perry’s unmatched experience and track record of success in broadcast M&A, he is uniquely qualified to deliver the full value we expect for shareholders, as well as the local communities we serve."

— Jay M. Grossman, Chairman of Nexstar's Board of Directors Compensation Committee

Jay M. Grossman, the chairman of Nexstar's Board of Directors Compensation Committee, made it clear that Sook’s expertise in mergers and acquisitions is exactly what they need right now. He emphasized that Sook is "uniquely qualified" to steer the company through this complex deal, ensuring value for both shareholders and the communities Nexstar serves.

Behind the Headlines: Recalling the Jimmy Kimmel Controversy and Its Context

Nexstar hasn't been a stranger to national headlines recently, especially during a period involving ABC's late-night host, Jimmy Kimmel. You might remember when Nexstar (along with Sinclair, another major station group) decided to pull Jimmy Kimmel Live! from its ABC affiliates' airwaves.

This move followed comments Kimmel made in his monologue several days after the shooting death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Some observers connected Nexstar's decision to pre-empt Kimmel with an attempt to curry favor with FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who had vocally criticized Kimmel's remarks and even hinted at potential license issues for local TV stations if Kimmel remained on air. The timing was certainly interesting, given that the Tegna acquisition, which requires FCC approval, was (and still is) pending.

However, Nexstar was quick to deny that Carr's threats influenced their decision. Instead, the company stated it was exercising its "duty to program in the public interest" as an FCC licensee and clarified that the blackout wasn't a violation of the First Amendment, arguing that "no one has an unlimited right to say whatever they want on a talk show." After a few days, and with Disney execs taking a "constructive approach to addressing our concerns," Nexstar agreed to start airing Kimmel's show again.

This episode highlights the delicate balance Nexstar must strike as a powerful media entity, navigating public interest, regulatory pressures, and the commercial realities of its vast network.

Why This Contract Extension is a Significant Development for the Entire Media Landscape

So, what does this all mean for you, whether you're a viewer, an advertiser, an employee, or just someone interested in how media shapes our world?

Perry Sook’s extended tenure sends a strong message of stability and continuity at a time when the media industry is anything but stable. With streaming services constantly shifting the goalposts and traditional broadcast media finding new ways to stay relevant, having a seasoned leader like Sook at the helm is a huge advantage for Nexstar.

His vision for growth, particularly through strategic acquisitions like Tegna, suggests that Nexstar isn't just looking to maintain its position; it's looking to expand and solidify its role as a dominant force in local news and entertainment. This could mean more resources for local programming, wider reach for national news outlets like NewsNation, and continued innovation in how content is delivered to communities across the U.S.

The company also remains a critical platform for advertisers looking to reach local audiences effectively, and Sook's continued leadership is seen as vital for creating sustained value for shareholders.

"As we embark on this next phase of growth for Nexstar, I have never been more energized about the prospects for the industry, for Nexstar and for what Nexstar can become. I look forward to leading the company to new levels of success and continuing to create value for our shareholders, our advertisers, our employees and the communities we serve."

— Perry Sook, Nexstar Chairman and CEO

Sook himself echoed this sentiment, stating he's "never been more energized" about the company's prospects and his commitment to creating value for all stakeholders, from shareholders to employees and the communities Nexstar serves. This renewed commitment from its founder and chief executive truly marks a pivotal moment for Nexstar, ensuring that the company remains on a trajectory of ambitious growth and influence in the evolving media landscape for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nexstar's CEO Extension

When does Perry Sook's new contract end at Nexstar Media Group?

Perry Sook's employment agreement as Chairman and CEO of Nexstar Media Group has been extended through March 31, 2029.

What major deals is Nexstar currently pursuing under Sook's leadership?

Nexstar is actively working on a proposed $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna, a deal that would significantly expand its reach in the U.S. local TV market, pending regulatory approval.

Why was there a controversy involving Jimmy Kimmel and Nexstar Media Group?

Nexstar, along with Sinclair, temporarily pulled Jimmy Kimmel Live! from its ABC affiliates following comments Kimmel made regarding conservative activist Charlie Kirk's death. This move sparked debate, with some linking it to Nexstar's pending Tegna deal and FCC relations, although Nexstar cited its "duty to program in the public interest."

What other major media properties does Nexstar Media Group own besides local TV stations?

Besides being the largest local TV station owner, Nexstar controls The CW Network, operates the national cable news channel NewsNation, owns multicast networks like Antenna TV and Rewind TV, and holds a 31.3% stake in TV Food Network. Its digital portfolio includes the political news outlet The Hill and NewsNationNow.com.

Sources

• Deadline Film + TV - Nexstar CEO Perry Sook Extends Contract Through 2029 (October 30, 2025)
• TVNewsCheck - Nexstar Media Group Extends CEO Perry Sook’s Contract (October 30, 2025)
• Variety Film + TV - Nexstar Extends CEO Perry Sook’s Contract Through 2029 (October 30, 2025)
• Barrett Media - Nexstar Media Group Signs CEO Perry Sook to Multi-Year Contract Extension (October 30, 2025)
• The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News - Nexstar Extends CEO Perry Sook’s Contract Into 2029 (October 30, 2025)
• NCS Staff - Nexstar extends CEO Perry Sook’s contract through March 2029 (October 30, 2025)
• TipRanks - Nexstar Media Extends CEO Perry Sook’s Contract (October 30, 2025)