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Warner Bros. Discovery Splits into Two Companies by 2026

7/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Warner Bros. Discovery is set to split into two distinct companies by mid-2026. Warner Bros. will concentrate on streaming and studios, including HBO and DC Studios, under the leadership of David Zaslav. Meanwhile, Discovery Global will manage cable networks like CNN and TNT, led by Gunnar Wiedenfels. Both will operate as publicly traded entities, marking a significant shift in the media landscape.

History

Historical Context

The merger of AOL and Time Warner in 2000 aimed to create a media powerhouse but faltered by 2009, leading to significant restructuring. In 2022, AT&T divested WarnerMedia, merging it with Discovery, Inc. to form Warner Bros. Discovery, reflecting ongoing challenges in the media landscape as companies adapt to streaming demands and shifting consumer preferences.

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Story summary

Warner Bros. Discovery is set to split into two distinct companies by mid-2026. Warner Bros. will concentrate on streaming and studios, including HBO and DC Studios, under the leadership of David Zaslav. Meanwhile, Discovery Global will manage cable networks like CNN and TNT, led by Gunnar Wiedenfels. Both will operate as publicly traded entities, marking a significant shift in the media landscape.

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