Sumner Redstone

Easton Press Sumner Redstone books

A Passion to Win - signed first edition - 2001

Sumner Redstone biography

Sumner Murray Redstone, born on May 27, 1923, in Boston, Massachusetts, was an American media magnate and business tycoon who built a vast empire in the entertainment industry. His life was marked by entrepreneurial vision, corporate battles, and a relentless pursuit of success. Redstone's journey to prominence began with his education at Harvard University, where he earned both a bachelor's degree and a law degree. After serving in World War II, he embarked on a legal career before transitioning to the business world.

In 1954, Redstone joined his family's theater chain business, National Amusements, which laid the foundation for his future success. Under his leadership, National Amusements expanded rapidly, acquiring numerous theaters and cinemas across the United States. However, it was Redstone's foray into the media industry that would catapult him to fame and fortune. In 1987, he acquired a controlling stake in Viacom, a global media conglomerate with interests in television, film, and cable networks. Through strategic acquisitions and mergers, Redstone transformed Viacom into one of the largest and most influential media companies in the world. Throughout his career, Redstone was known for his shrewd deal-making skills and aggressive corporate tactics. He engaged in high-profile battles for control of Viacom and its subsidiaries, including Paramount Pictures and CBS Corporation, often facing off against formidable adversaries in the corporate world.

Despite his success, Redstone faced personal challenges and controversies, including family disputes over his vast fortune and allegations of corporate misconduct. Nevertheless, he remained a towering figure in the media industry, revered for his business acumen and transformative impact on the entertainment landscape.

In addition to his business pursuits, Redstone was a noted philanthropist, supporting various charitable causes and organizations. He also maintained a keen interest in the arts and was a patron of numerous cultural institutions. Sumner Redstone passed away on August 11, 2020, at the age of 97, leaving behind a complex legacy as a pioneering media mogul and corporate titan. His life story serves as a testament to the power of ambition, perseverance, and innovation in the world of business and entertainment.