Open letter opposing the Paramount–Warner Bros. Discovery Merger
Several Hollywood stars, filmmakers, documentarians, and professionals across the film and television industry have spoken out strongly against Paramount’s planned acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. In an open letter signed by prominent figures including Jane Fonda, Javier Bardem, Ben Stiller, and others. According to the statement, more than 1,000 industry professionals have signed the appeal.
Excerpt from the open letter
“(…)We are deeply concerned by support for this merger that prioritizes the interests of a few powerful stakeholders over the public good. The integrity, independence, and diversity of the industry would be significantly compromised (…).“
At the end of February, Warner Bros. Discovery agreed to the multibillion-dollar takeover by Paramount Skydance. Rival Netflix had previously withdrawn from a lengthy bidding process. If approved by regulators, the iconic Hollywood company would come under the control of the family of tech billionaire Larry Ellison, a known supporter of Donald Trump. Ellison aims to expand his influence in Hollywood. Paramount is currently considered one of the smaller players in the industry.
The full text of the open letter can be found in the source description.