US President Donald Trump has weighed in on Netflix’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros., stating that the streaming giant’s already significant market share could pose a problem. The nearly $83 billion deal, which has raised antitrust concerns, would grant Netflix a substantial catalog of content, including film classics and popular franchises.
Speaking at the Kennedy Center Honors awards ceremony, Trump indicated that he would be involved in the decision-making process, which is currently under review by federal regulators. The acquisition would see Netflix absorb competing streaming platform HBO Max and Warner Bros. studios, producers of iconic films such as “Casablanca” and “Citizen Kane,” as well as recent blockbusters like “Barbie.”
The deal would also give Netflix control over a vast library of content, including the Harry Potter films, the Lord of the Rings saga, and DC Studios’ superheroes, such as Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman. However, the acquisition would not include television channels like Discovery and CNN, which would be spun off from Warner Bros. prior to the sale.
Warner Bros. Discovery, the parent company, announced its decision to sell in October, following multiple unsolicited offers. The company ultimately chose Netflix over other bidders, including cable operator Comcast and media group Paramount Skydance. Notably, Paramount’s chief, David Ellison, is a significant supporter of Trump.
The proposed acquisition has sparked concerns among Hollywood’s elite and raised questions about the potential impact on the entertainment industry. If approved, the deal would significantly expand Netflix’s market share, potentially altering the competitive landscape of the streaming market. As the review process continues, regulators will carefully consider the implications of the acquisition, with Trump’s involvement likely to be closely watched. The outcome of this deal will have significant implications for the future of the entertainment industry, with many waiting to see how the situation unfolds.