Ramsey Naito, the longtime president of Paramount Animation and Nickelodeon Animation, has officially stepped down from her role amid ongoing corporate restructuring and layoffs at Paramount Global. The news marks a major leadership shift for the studio behind blockbuster animated hits like The SpongeBob Movie, Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem.
Leadership Change During a Challenging Time
According to multiple reports, Naito’s departure comes as Paramount Global continues to streamline operations across divisions in response to industry-wide budget cuts and a slower theatrical recovery. Insiders say the layoffs have affected several departments, including animation, marketing, and creative development.
A Paramount spokesperson confirmed Naito’s exit in a brief statement, saying,
“We thank Ramsey for her years of leadership and creative vision. She played a vital role in shaping Paramount Animation and guiding Nickelodeon’s global success.”
No successor has yet been named, and it’s unclear whether Paramount plans to merge the animation units under a single leadership umbrella following the reorganization.
Ramsey Naito’s Impact on Paramount Animation
Naito joined Nickelodeon in 2018 and quickly rose through the ranks to become President of Animation for Paramount and Nickelodeon in 2021. Under her leadership, both studios expanded their original film and series pipelines, reviving iconic franchises while nurturing new IPs.
Her tenure saw the release of critically acclaimed titles such as:
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023)
- PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie (2023)
- The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run (2020)
Naito also pushed for greater diversity and inclusion in animation, supporting projects from emerging creators and voices.
“Animation has the power to connect with global audiences across generations,” she said in a 2023 interview. “My mission has always been to tell stories that inspire and represent everyone.”
Layoffs Shake the Industry
Paramount Animation’s leadership shake-up comes amid broader layoffs that have hit the entertainment sector hard in 2025. Streaming competition, declining box-office revenue, and rising production costs have forced studios to scale back staff and prioritize franchise-driven content.
Analysts say Paramount’s restructuring is part of a larger strategy to reduce costs ahead of its rumored merger discussions with Skydance Media.
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What’s Next for Naito
While Naito has not yet revealed her next career move, many in the industry believe she will remain a major figure in animation. Colleagues and artists have praised her leadership style, calling her a “visionary who champions creators.”
Given her track record, speculation is mounting that she could join a streaming platform like Netflix Animation or start her own independent production venture.
Industry Reactions
Several animators and producers took to social media to express support and gratitude for Naito’s leadership.
Animator Jorge Gutierrez, creator of The Book of Life, wrote:
“Ramsey has always stood up for artists and fresh ideas. Paramount was lucky to have her.”
Fans of Nickelodeon classics have also voiced concern about what her exit means for the future of the studio’s beloved properties.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Why did Ramsey Naito leave Paramount Animation?
Her departure coincides with widespread layoffs and restructuring within Paramount Global. The studio has not disclosed specific reasons.
Q2. What are some major projects she worked on?
Naito oversaw Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem, PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie, and The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run.
Q3. Will Paramount Animation continue under new leadership?
Yes, but no replacement has been announced. The animation and Nickelodeon teams are expected to report to interim executives for now.
Q4. How are layoffs affecting the studio?
Reports suggest dozens of employees were let go as Paramount restructures its animation, production, and marketing departments.
Q5. What’s next for Ramsey Naito?
She hasn’t confirmed future plans, but many believe she may take on a leadership role at another major animation studio or launch her own company.