Jewish American billionaire Brandon Korff, who recently completed the media world’s deal of the decade – the sale of the giant media conglomerate Paramount at a valuation of approximately $35 billion – is currently in the midst of the process of obtaining Israeli residency.
A senior government official confirmed that Korff recently submitted an official request to become a resident of the State of Israel, describing the move as a show of support at a time of international boycotts and a hostile global atmosphere.
In 2025, Korff has been spending considerably more time in Israel, and his presence has become noticeably more prominent as a result. “This is a positive and significant step for Israel,” the official said. “Especially at a time when Israel’s political standing is complicated, such an influential figure in the media world is welcome.”
Korff is well known for his longstanding ties to Israel. In recent years, he has donated millions of dollars to a wide range of Israeli causes, including support for IDF soldiers, hospitals and community initiatives. That support has notably expanded this year, alongside his extended stays in the country. His brother also served as a lone soldier in an elite IDF unit.
Background: Paramount and the Redstone family
Brandon Korff is the grandson of the late Sumner Redstone, the longtime media mogul who built one of the most powerful empires in global entertainment. Until the recent sale of Paramount, Korff sat on the board of National Amusements, the Redstone family’s private holding company that controlled the media giant.
Over the decades, the Redstones expanded Paramount’s influence across film, television and broadcasting, with marquee brands such as CBS, MTV and Nickelodeon. The company also owned Showtime, BET, Comedy Central, and well-known franchises including Star Trek, Mission: Impossible, SpongeBob SquarePants and Yellowstone.