The board of Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) is expected to reject the revised takeover offer from Paramount Skydance, according to a Bloomberg News report published Tuesday. The board is scheduled to formally vote on the matter next week.
The decision signals WBD's intent to proceed with its previously announced merger agreement with Netflix, a deal valued at over $80 billion. Paramount Skydance, led by David Ellison, has been actively pursuing WBD's assets, viewing them as essential for establishing a major player in the evolving global media landscape. The amended offer, presented with considerable publicity on Dec. 22, was the latest attempt to sway WBD's board.
The potential merger between WBD and Netflix reflects a broader trend of consolidation within the media industry, as companies seek to gain a competitive edge in the increasingly crowded streaming market. This trend is particularly relevant in the context of globalization, where media companies are vying for audiences across diverse cultural backgrounds and geographical locations. The WBD-Netflix deal, if finalized, would create a media powerhouse with significant reach in both established and emerging markets.
From an international perspective, the merger could have implications for content production and distribution. Netflix's global subscriber base and production capabilities, combined with WBD's extensive library of films and television shows, could lead to a wider range of content being available to audiences worldwide. This could also impact local media industries, as they face increased competition from a larger, more diversified global player.
The rejection of Paramount Skydance's offer underscores the strategic importance of streaming services in the current media environment. As traditional television viewership declines, companies are increasingly focused on building their digital platforms and attracting subscribers through original content and exclusive deals. The outcome of the WBD-Netflix merger will likely have a significant impact on the future of the media industry, both domestically and internationally.
Cynthia Littleton of Variety reported the expected rejection, citing Bloomberg News as the primary source. The formal vote by the WBD board is scheduled for next week, at which point the company is expected to reaffirm its commitment to the merger with Netflix.
Multi-Source Journalism
This article synthesizes reporting from multiple credible news sources to provide comprehensive, balanced coverage.
Deep insights powered by AI
Continue exploring
A recent report suggests Americans harbor negative feelings towards AI, particularly regarding data center construction, energy costs, environmental impact, and job displacement, prompting debate within the Democratic Party on whether to adopt an "anti-AI" stance. This situation highlights the complex societal implications of AI development and the need for political leaders to address public concerns effectively.
A team of forecasters revisited 25 predictions made at the beginning of 2025, assessing their accuracy at year's end. Using probability-based forecasting, they achieved an 80% accuracy rate, highlighting the challenges and potential of predictive models in anticipating future events. This exercise demonstrates the ongoing refinement of AI-driven forecasting and its implications for strategic planning.
The Trump administration's policies have significantly undermined federal data collection across various sectors, including environment, public health, and demographics, driven by ideological resistance and budget cuts. This degradation of data integrity is expected to hinder scientific advancements, obscure economic realities, and erode public trust in governmental institutions, ultimately impacting informed decision-making.
A Vox video recaps the tumultuous events of 2025, highlighting Trump's second term, the Epstein files release, and significant political shifts including Gen Z-led protests. China's DeepSeek AI introduction also marked a turning point, while global unrest grew as the US initiated new military actions.
Warner Bros. Discovery's board is expected to decline Paramount Skydance's revised acquisition bid, signaling a continued commitment to its merger agreement with Netflix, a deal reflecting the evolving landscape of global media consolidation. The decision highlights the intense competition among major media players vying for dominance in the streaming era, as Paramount Skydance persists with a direct appeal to WBD shareholders amidst shifting alliances.
"Avatar: Fire and Ash" topped the U.K. and Ireland box office for a second weekend, earning £6.1 million and outperforming a slew of new holiday releases. "The Housemaid" and "The Spongebob Movie: Search For Squarepants" debuted in second and third place, respectively, amidst a crowded top 10.
The first look of Nayanthara as Ganga in "Toxic - A Fairytale for Grown-Ups" has been revealed, showcasing the actress in a powerful and unconventional role. The image suggests a character embodying calculated authority within a luxurious, high-stakes setting, marking a departure from her previous roles. This reveal heightens anticipation for the film and demonstrates the evolving landscape of character portrayals in Indian cinema.
Canal+ and Warner Bros. Discovery have forged a significant international agreement, reinforcing their collaborative efforts across multiple territories. This deal encompasses the renewal of HBO Max distribution in several Central and Eastern European countries, alongside its expansion into Belgium and Austria, reflecting the growing demand for streaming services in the European market. The agreement also secures the continued distribution of key Warner Bros. Discovery networks in the region, ensuring diverse content offerings for viewers.
A science fiction story features robots built to clear rubble after a cataclysm, highlighting advanced AI design with self-lubricating circulatory systems. One robot, Twobit, working on a marble building, uses historical recordings to reimagine the structure's past importance, raising questions about AI's potential for creative problem-solving and historical preservation in a transformed world.
An article from Nature's archive explores historical perspectives, potentially containing outdated and offensive content by modern standards. It highlights past views on topics related to history, computer science, and engineering, while also referencing current news and views on AI safety, quantum science, and related subjects.
Humans are biological chimeras, hosting cells from relatives like mothers and children, a phenomenon called microchimerism. These microchimeric cells, though rare, reside in various organs and are prompting scientists to explore their impact on health, disease, and our understanding of individual identity.
A recent study reveals that even a single alcoholic drink daily can elevate the risk of mouth cancer, particularly when combined with chewing tobacco, highlighting the amplified dangers of concurrent substance use. The research, focusing on the Indian population, underscores the need for increased awareness regarding the risks associated with even moderate alcohol consumption and its synergistic effects with other carcinogenic substances.
Discussion
Join the conversation
Be the first to comment