Paramount Counters Netflix With $108bn Bid for Warner Bros. Discovery

By Michael Ehindero
Paramount has launched a surprise counteroffer for Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), just days after Netflix unveiled plans to acquire the media giant in a deal valued at nearly $83 billion, including debt. The move sets the stage for what could become one of the most significant takeover battles in Hollywood’s history.

In a statement on Monday, Paramount said it would take its $30-per-share all-cash offer directly to WBD shareholders. The proposal, which includes WBD’s Global Networks division, values the company at $108 billion, far higher than Netflix’s offer. Paramount also urged WBD’s board to reject Netflix’s bid.

“We believe our offer will create a stronger Hollywood,” Paramount chief executive David Ellison said, adding that the proposal serves “the best interests of the creative community, consumers and the movie theatre industry.”

The escalating contest has drawn political scrutiny. U.S. President Donald Trump has raised concerns about the potential concentration of market power should Netflix succeed in acquiring WBD.

Netflix, however, maintains confidence in gaining regulatory approval, arguing the merger would deliver value for consumers, shareholders and content creators while reducing dependence on external studios.

Paramount’s aggressive bid underscores the intense competition and high strategic stakes surrounding one of Hollywood’s most valuable content libraries, as the streaming industry braces for further consolidation.


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