Ask Onix
Trump voices potential antitrust issues with Netflix-Warner Bros merger
US President Donald Trump has expressed reservations about Netflix's proposed $72 billion acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery, warning the combined entity could dominate the streaming market. Speaking at an event in Washington DC on Sunday, Trump highlighted Netflix's already substantial market share and suggested the deal might face regulatory scrutiny.
Deal details and industry reactions
The agreement, announced Friday, would transfer Warner Bros' iconic franchises-including Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, Looney Tunes, and The Lord of the Rings-to Netflix, solidifying its position as the leading global streaming platform. The merger, the largest in recent film industry history, is expected to finalize after Warner Bros splits its business in late 2026, pending approval from competition authorities.
Industry analysts note the deal could reshape the entertainment landscape. Blair Westlake, a former Universal Studios executive, told the BBC's Today program that the key concern lies in combining Netflix's streaming dominance with Warner Bros' HBO network. While he predicts eventual approval, he anticipates concessions may be required.
Regulatory and political hurdles
The US Justice Department's antitrust division is reviewing the merger, which could face legal challenges if deemed overly concentrated. Trump emphasized his personal involvement in the decision, stating he would weigh the deal's impact on market competition. He also praised Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, who recently met with him at the Oval Office, calling him "a great person" who has achieved historic success in the industry.
Bill Kovacic, former chair of the Federal Trade Commission, warned that Trump's remarks signal an unusual level of presidential influence over what has traditionally been a technical regulatory process. "Negotiations over this deal will likely run through the White House," he said on the Today program.
Opposition and competitive dynamics
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) has urged regulators to block the merger, arguing it would violate antitrust laws by creating a monopoly. In a statement, the guild warned the deal would eliminate jobs, suppress wages, reduce content diversity, and raise consumer prices. "The world's largest streaming company absorbing one of its biggest competitors is exactly what antitrust laws were designed to prevent," the WGA said.
Netflix outbid rivals including Comcast and Paramount Skydance to secure the agreement. Paramount Skydance, led by David Ellison, had previously attempted to acquire all of Warner Bros, including its cable networks, but was rebuffed. David Ellison's father, billionaire Larry Ellison, is a known ally of Trump.
Next steps and timeline
The merger's fate now rests with US regulators, who will assess its impact on market competition. If approved, the deal would mark a significant shift in the streaming wars, further consolidating Netflix's dominance while reshaping the future of film and television production.
