Full Breakdown
Jane Fonda Critiques Paramount-Warner Bros. Merger
3/17/2026, 11:08:20 AM
Concerns Over Media Consolidation
Jane Fonda, the acclaimed actress and activist, has publicly criticized the recent merger between Paramount and Warner Bros., a deal valued at $110 billion. Speaking at the Vanity Fair Oscars party on March 15, 2023, Fonda expressed her apprehensions regarding the implications of such media consolidations for workers and the integrity of news reporting. She stated, “The mergers are going to be bad for workers, a lot of people are going to lose their jobs. We’re going to have higher prices. We’re going to have political control over what we do.”
Fonda's concerns were further fueled by comments from United States Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, who suggested that CNN should come under the control of Paramount. Fonda remarked, “That’s why Hegseth said, ‘CNN can’t come soon enough to be under the control of Paramount.’ Because we know [Donald] Trump wants to hurt.” Her remarks highlight a fear that the merger could lead to increased political influence over media narratives.
Background on the Merger
The merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. is set to close later this year, following Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. This deal comes after Netflix declined to match Paramount's offer to acquire Warner Bros. The CEO of Paramount, David Ellison, stated that the merger aims to honor the legacy of both companies while creating a next-generation media and entertainment entity. He emphasized the goal of enhancing value for audiences, partners, and shareholders through the integration of their respective studios and streaming platforms.
Criticism of Mergers
Fonda's critique extends beyond the Paramount-Warner Bros. merger; she believes that all media mergers pose significant risks. She wore a pin that read “Block the Merger” to symbolize her opposition to such consolidations. Fonda articulated her belief that mergers compromise the quality and neutrality of news, recalling her pride in CNN's original mission as a “trusted” and unbiased news outlet. She lamented the current state of media, stating, “It didn’t take positions, it reported the news. And to see what’s happening, we have to stop.”
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the merger, Fonda's sentiments reflect a broader concern among critics regarding the impact of media consolidation on journalistic integrity and employment. While Paramount's leadership remains optimistic about the merger's potential benefits, Fonda's perspective underscores the unease felt by many regarding the future of media in an era of increasing corporate control.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The mergers are going to be bad for workers, a lot of people are going to lose their jobs,” — Jane Fonda, Actress
- “That’s why Hegseth, the Secretary of Defense, said, ‘CNN can’t come soon enough to be under the control of Paramount.’ Because we know [Donald] Trump wants to hurt,” — Jane Fonda, Actress
- “We’re gonna win.” — Jane Fonda, Actress
Fonda's comments reflect a critical viewpoint on the evolving landscape of media ownership and its implications for democracy and public discourse.
