Netflix's Bold Move: Acquires Warner Bros for $72 Billion

Sat Dec 06 2025 08:42:39 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a landmark deal, Netflix has secured Warner Bros Discovery’s film and streaming assets, aiming to redefine the entertainment landscape with an estimated value of $72 billion.

Netflix has announced it will acquire Warner Bros Discovery's film and streaming businesses for $72 billion, outbidding competitors like Comcast and Paramount Skydance. The acquisition aims to enhance Netflix's production capabilities and audience offerings while maintaining the integrity of Warner Bros' iconic brands. The deal highlights Netflix's ambition to solidify its leadership in the global streaming market amidst regulatory challenges and industry scrutiny.

Netflix has agreed to buy the film and streaming businesses of Warner Bros Discovery for $72bn (£54bn) in a major Hollywood deal.

The streaming giant emerged as the successful bidder for Warner Bros ahead of rivals Comcast and Paramount Skydance after a drawn-out battle. Warner Bros owns franchises including Harry Potter and Game of Thrones, and the streaming service HBO Max.

The takeover is set to create a new giant in the entertainment industry, but the deal will still have to be approved by competition authorities.

Netflix co-chief executive Ted Sarandos said the streamer was 'highly confident' it would receive the regulatory approval it needs and was running 'full speed' towards this.

He added that by combining the library of Warner Bros shows and movies with Netflix's series such as Stranger Things, we can give audiences more of what they love and help define the next century of storytelling.

Labeling it a big day for the companies, Mr. Sarandos acknowledged the acquisition may have surprised some shareholders but asserted it was a rare opportunity for long-term success.

David Zaslav, president and CEO of Warner Bros, noted that this merger would combine two of the greatest storytelling companies in the world. The cash and stock deal is worth $27.75 per Warner Bros share with a total enterprise value of $82.7bn.

The acquisition is expected to allow Netflix to expand its studio production capacity and increase its investment in original content.

Regulatory scrutiny looms over the transaction, as analysts predict potential higher subscription prices for consumers and significant changes in the film output landscape as a result of this merger.