Former Viacom CEO Tom Freston Reveals Wild Tales from MTV to Myspace

Tom Freston, the former CEO of Viacom, has released a new memoir. The book details his unconventional journey from global adventurer to media mogul. It covers his firing by Sumner Redstone and his unique leadership philosophy.

Freston led MTV Networks during its cultural peak. His book, “Unplugged,” shares stories from that era and his life before corporate America. According to The Hollywood Reporter, he aims to inspire people to live more interesting lives.

From Afghanistan to the Executive Suite

Freston’s path was anything but traditional. He spent years in India and Afghanistan before joining a startup cable company. That company would soon launch a revolutionary music channel called MTV.

He became its president by embracing a scrappy, rule-breaking ethos. Freston recalls taking Sumner Redstone to a Bangkok sex club. He also announced the launch of Comedy Central purely to beat HBO to the punch.

Analyzing the Modern Media Landscape

Freston shared his thoughts on today’s entertainment industry. He expressed support for David Ellison’s new leadership at Paramount. He believes Ellison’s passion for film makes him a better owner than a private equity firm.

He also reflected on his own abrupt firing in 2006. Redstone dismissed him for not acquiring the social network Myspace. The deal would later be seen as a disastrous overpay by competitor Rupert Murdoch.

Freston advises young people to embrace unconventional paths. He advocates for travel and risk-taking over immediate corporate jobs. His legacy is one of creative innovation built from the edges, not the mainstream.

Tom Freston’s story demonstrates that a non-linear career can lead to extraordinary success. His insights remain relevant for today’s media leaders. The former Viacom CEO’s experiences offer a masterclass in creative leadership.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: Why was Tom Freston fired from Viacom?

Sumner Redstone fired him in 2006. The primary reason was Freston’s failure to acquire the social networking site Myspace. History later proved this was a fortunate miss, saving Viacom over half a billion dollars.

Q2: What was Tom Freston’s role at MTV?

He was a founding team member and later became President of MTV Networks. He helped build the channel’s rebellious, youth-centric brand during its 1980s and 1990s cultural dominance.

Q3: Does Freston think MTV can be revived?

He believes it is possible but challenging. He suggests leveraging its vast library of music videos and iconic shows. New leadership would need to attract fresh, creative talent to make it relevant again.

Q4: What was his relationship with Sumner Redstone like?

It was complex. Freston respected Redstone’s business brilliance but witnessed his unpredictable and ruthless side. Their relationship ended with Freston’s very public firing.

Q5: Who does Freston admire in today’s media business?

He named Bob Iger, the teams at Fox Searchlight, and A24. He admires their ability to curate quality content and maintain a distinct, often edgy, creative identity.

Q6: What advice does he have for young professionals?

He strongly advises against rushing into a traditional corporate path. He recommends traveling, taking risks, and improvising one’s own life to gain unique perspective and experience.