New York Post·2025-12-15 16:51Core Viewpoint - Netflix co-CEOs Ted Sarandos and Greg Peters are advocating for the acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, addressing concerns about job cuts and the future of theatrical releases amid a rival bid from Paramount Skydance [1][2][3] Acquisition Details - Netflix is pursuing a $72 billion deal that includes HBO, HBO Max, and Warner Bros. Studios, while Paramount has made a hostile bid valuing Warner Bros. Discovery at approximately $78 billion with an all-cash offer of $30 per share [3][4] - The Netflix offer amounts to $27.75 per share, with the argument that Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders will ultimately receive more than $30 per share when the company's cable assets are spun off [6] Industry Impact - The co-CEOs emphasized that the deal is focused on growth, aiming to strengthen one of Hollywood's iconic studios and support jobs in the film and TV production sector [2][3] - Concerns have been raised regarding regulatory approval, particularly since Netflix would own the top two streaming services if the deal goes through [8][10] Competitive Landscape - The CEOs noted that a potential Netflix-Warner Bros. combination would have a smaller view share percentage compared to YouTube or a Paramount-Warner Bros. partnership, indicating a competitive landscape in the streaming market [9] - Senator Elizabeth Warren has criticized both deals, labeling Paramount's offer as a significant antitrust concern and previously describing Netflix's bid as an "anti-monopoly nightmare" [9][10] Historical Significance - If the acquisition is successful, Netflix would gain control of Warner Bros., a studio with a rich history, including classics like "Casablanca" and major franchises such as "Harry Potter" and "Lord of the Rings" [10][11] - Additionally, Netflix would acquire HBO, recognized as a gold standard in television with acclaimed series like "The Sopranos" and "Game of Thrones" [11]