What the Warner Bros deal could mean for streaming, cinem...

What’s Happening

Real talk: If Paramount’s takeover of Warner Bros goes ahead it could majorly reshape Hollywood.

What the Warner Bros deal could mean for streaming, cinemas and news 9 hours ago Save Jemma Crew , Business reporter and Natalie Sherman , Business reporter Save The proposed takeover of Warner Bros could majorly reshape Hollywood and the wider media landscape. Its far from a done deal - Paramount still needs approval from regulators. (we’re not making this up)

But if it does go ahead, heres how it could shake up things for viewers.

The Details

Streaming costs could change Paramount is expected to merge its Paramount+ service with Warner Bros HBO Max to create what it hopes would be a must-have streaming service that can hold its own against competitors Netflix, Amazon and Disney. Viewers would be able to enjoy a broader range of content with one single subscription, from current hits such as The Pitt, to classics like Casablanca, Star Trek, Friends and the Sopranos.

What it would mean for prices is less clear. Initially, analysts say it is likely that people who rn pay for both services could get a cheaper overall deal.

Why This Matters

But over time having a more compelling offer could allow Paramount to raise prices, while less competition between streamers could mean people pay more overall for their streaming subscriptions. “Thered be just less competition,” says Tom Harrington, a TV analyst from Enders. “The ability there would be to charge a bit more.

This reflects broader trends we’re seeing in the business world right now.

Key Takeaways

• But none of those changes are on the immediate horizon.
• But concern over consumer prices and harm to workers could lead state attorneys general to try to block the deal further down the line, he adds.

The Bottom Line

Under US President Donald Trump it is expected to be “full speed ahead” for regulatory approval, says Scott Wagner, head of the antitrust practice at the law firm Bilzin Sumberg. But concern over consumer prices and harm to workers could lead state attorneys general to try to block the deal further down the line, he adds.

What’s your take on this whole situation?