Netflix just made one of the boldest moves in Hollywood history — snapping up Warner Bros Discovery’s film and streaming divisions for a massive $72bn.
Yes, the home of Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, and HBO is about to live under the Netflix umbrella. So what does that even look like?
After a long bidding war with Comcast and Paramount Skydance, Netflix emerged on top.
Co-CEO Ted Sarandos called it a “rare opportunity,” saying that by blending Netflix hits like Stranger Things with Warner Bros’ iconic catalogue, they can “define the next century of storytelling.”
Big words — but then again, this is a big deal.
Merger Faces Scrutiny
Regulators still need to approve the merger, and Netflix insists it’s “highly confident” the deal will go through.
If it does, expect some shake-ups: billions in cost savings from merging tech and support teams.
Potential changes to HBO’s future as a standalone service, and a major recalibration across Hollywood.
Cinemas aren’t thrilled. Michael O’Leary from Cinema United warned the merger poses an “unprecedented threat” to theatres worldwide.
Analysts, meanwhile, say consumers should brace for higher subscription prices.
Still, Netflix says Warner Bros films will continue hitting cinemas — a peace offering of sorts.
A Hollywood mega-merger that promises more stories, more power… and probably a pricier subscription.
