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Fri, 27 Feb 2026

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 What the Warner Bros deal could mean for streaming, cinemas and news

If Paramount's takeover of Warner Bros goes ahead it could significantly reshape Hollywood.
A potential takeover of Warner Bros by Paramount Skydance could have significant implications for Hollywood and the media landscape. If approved, it could lead to a merger between Paramount+ and HBO Max into a single streaming service with a vast library of content, including current hits like The Pitt and classic shows such as Friends and Star Trek. Viewers may benefit from a broader range of content under one subscription, but prices are uncertain. Analysts predict that people currently paying for both services might get a cheaper overall deal initially, but over time, Paramount could raise prices with less competition in the market. The merger would also put CNN under the control of the Ellison family, who have ties to the White House, sparking concerns about potential changes to the network's coverage. Media advocates fear that this could lead to more cautious reporting on the Trump administration. However, experts warn that consolidation will likely result in fewer films being made, as happened after Disney acquired Fox. Paramount is already cutting costs and has taken on debt to finance the deal, which may limit its ability to invest in new content. The takeover would also concentrate America's largest media companies in the hands of conservatives, raising concerns about the impact on democracy and the rule of law.