Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 02:54pm on 05 Dec 2025,Friday Business
Netflix has agreed to acquire Warner Bros Discovery’s film and streaming businesses, including HBO Max, for $72bn in cash and stock, creating a new entertainment giant. The deal, unanimously approved by both boards, positions Netflix ahead of rivals Comcast and Paramount. CEO Ted Sarandos said combining Warner Bros’ franchises like Harry Potter and Game of Thrones with Netflix originals such as Stranger Things will “define the next century of storytelling.” Warner Bros films will still release in cinemas, while its TV studio can produce for third parties. Analysts warn of regulatory hurdles, possible reduced output, and higher consumer prices, though Netflix expects $2–3bn in savings from overlaps. (PC: Variety)
