U.S. Justice Department Approves Paramount’s $111bn Takeover of Warner Bros

The Department of Justice has cleared the $111bn (82.8bn pounds) acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery by Paramount Skydance.

The deal eliminates a competing bid from Netflix and brings the Hollywood studio’s portfolio, including CNN, HBO, TBS, and DC Studios, under Paramount’s control.

The DOJ said a “rigorous” review found the merger would likely increase competition and benefit consumers and workers.

Nevertheless, states such as California are reviewing the transaction and may file lawsuits to block the consolidation, citing job losses and reduced media diversity.

More than 1,400 film industry professionals signed an open letter warning that the merger could limit opportunities for creators and raise costs for audiences.

Paramount’s leadership has highlighted potential cost‑savings, but critics point to prior cuts after its 2025 merger with Skydance and concerns over political bias in CBS News.

The sale marks a major shift in the U.S. media landscape, raising questions about the future of independent studios and content distribution.