Raffaele Annecchino, former Paramount International CEO, dies at 55

Raffaele Annecchino, the former chief executive of Paramount International, died at the age of 55 on Sunday in Los Angeles. The former Italian executive, who had been diagnosed with a serious illness earlier this year, passed away in his home after a brief battle with the disease. His death was confirmed by Paramount’s public relations office, which released a brief statement to the media.

Annecchino joined Paramount in 2009 as the company’s chief financial officer, before being promoted to CEO of Paramount International in 2017. During his tenure, he oversaw the launch of several high‑profile film releases and the expansion of the studio’s global distribution network into emerging markets. Under his leadership, Paramount International reported a 12% increase in worldwide box office revenue in 2019, and he played a key role in negotiating a multi‑year streaming partnership with a leading digital platform. Colleagues remember him as a hands‑on leader who encouraged creative risk‑taking and built strong relationships with filmmakers and distributors across Asia, Europe, and Latin America.

The studio’s statement praised Annecchino’s “visionary leadership” and his “commitment to nurturing talent and expanding the reach of Paramount’s storytelling.” A senior executive added that his “passion for cinema and dedication to the company’s global mission will be deeply missed.” Industry insiders noted that Annecchino had been a respected figure in Hollywood, often speaking at international film festivals and advocating for greater diversity in film production. Friends and former colleagues on social media paid tribute to his warmth, sense of humor, and the mentorship he offered to younger executives.

Paramount has announced that Annecchino’s funeral will be held privately in his native Italy, with a public memorial service scheduled for next month in Los Angeles. The company will also establish a scholarship fund in his name to support emerging filmmakers from underrepresented regions. As the entertainment industry reflects on his contributions, many see his legacy as a bridge between traditional film production and the evolving digital landscape, a legacy that will influence Paramount’s strategy for years to come.