Deadline·2026-03-10 22:38Core Insights - Paramount CEO David Ellison met with Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) executives to discuss the $110 billion takeover, which is expected to close by the end of the year [1] - The merger is projected to yield at least $6 billion in cost savings, raising concerns about potential layoffs among WBD's workforce [2] - Ellison emphasized that the cost savings will primarily come from non-personnel means, attempting to alleviate fears of job losses [2] Group 1 - Approximately 200 top executives from WBD attended the meeting, which took place at the Steven J. Ross Theatre in Burbank, CA [1] - Attendees described the meeting as lacking engagement, with Ellison's remarks perceived as platitudinous and avoiding direct discussions about layoffs [4] - Ellison's presentation included a focus on the ambitious plan to release 30 theatrical films annually, with Warner Bros. and Melrose studios contributing 14 and 16 films respectively [5] Group 2 - Ellison's knowledge of the industry was noted, particularly regarding storytelling, sports rights, and the importance of brand differentiation within WBD [5] - Following the meeting, Ellison had lunch with Casey Bloys, Chairman and CEO of HBO and HBO Max Content, indicating the importance of retaining key executives post-merger [6]