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Warner Bros. Discovery, Paramount Merge Vote Set for 2026

4/23/2026

Summary

Warner Bros. Merger Vote

Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders will vote on April 23, 2026, on a $111 billion merger with Paramount Skydance at $31 per share.
The deal would consolidate HBO Max and Paramount+ into a single platform, despite the scrutiny of state attorneys general.
The board and proxy firms support the merger.
Hollywood labor groups oppose the merger.
Paramount CEO David Ellison remains optimistic about regulatory approval.

Summary

Hollywood Professionals Protest

More than 3,000 Hollywood professionals oppose the Warner Bros.-Paramount merger, including Bryan Cranston and Mark Ruffalo, warning it will reduce jobs.
The deal carries about $79 billion in debt, potentially increasing costs.
The Ellison family appears to court President Donald Trump to ease regulatory hurdles, raising concerns about journalistic integrity and antitrust oversight.
Clint Eastwood, a longtime Warner collaborator, is suggested as an advocate for workers’ rights in this crisis.

History

Historical Context

The Telecommunications Act of 1996, signed by President Bill Clinton, marked a significant shift from the Communications Act of 1934 by promoting deregulation and competition in media ownership. This led to a 50% increase in media consolidation, raising concerns about job losses and diversity. Today, over 3,000 Hollywood professionals oppose the proposed $111 billion Warner Bros.-Paramount merger, echoing historical fears about the industry's future.

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Warner Bros. Merger Vote

Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders will vote on April 23, 2026, on a $111 billion merger with Paramount Skydance at $31 per share.
The deal would consolidate HBO Max and Paramount+ into a single platform, despite the scrutiny of state attorneys general.
The board and proxy firms support the merger.
Hollywood labor groups oppose the merger.
Paramount CEO David Ellison remains optimistic about regulatory approval.

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