Netflix–Warner Bros. Merger ‘Must Be Blocked,’ WGA Says

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Many people are objecting to the idea of a Casablanca remake, and a major deal between Netflix and Warner Bros. is facing scrutiny because of its potential impact on the entertainment industry. The Writers Guild of America strongly opposed the deal on December 5th, arguing it could lead to lower pay and fewer jobs for writers and other entertainment professionals. They believe that allowing the world’s largest streaming service to acquire one of its major competitors would violate antitrust laws. The guild warns that this merger could result in job losses, reduced wages, higher prices for viewers, and less diverse content. They argue that a few powerful companies already have too much control over what people watch, and this deal would only make the problem worse, so it should be blocked.

The Teamsters union joined the WGA in opposing the deal, stating that the increasing concentration of corporate power threatens union jobs, members’ livelihoods, and the industry as a whole. Lindsay Dougherty, a Teamsters leader, told Variety that the union will continue to fight against this deal—and any others like it—at all levels of government, urging antitrust regulators to reject it.

While not immediately rejecting the agreement, the Directors Guild of America stated its belief that a thriving and competitive entertainment industry is crucial for protecting the jobs and creative rights of directors and their crews. A DGA representative told Deadline they plan to discuss their concerns with Netflix and learn more about the company’s future plans.

The Producers Guild of America acknowledged concerns about Netflix buying a historic studio, but expressed a willingness to work with Netflix. In a statement, the Guild emphasized the need to balance economic and technological changes with protecting producers’ incomes, maintaining traditional movie theater releases, and supporting creativity, workers, consumer choice, and free speech. They stated that the deal with Netflix must address these crucial points.

Concerns about a potential Netflix monopoly are growing, extending beyond union protests. Politicians like Bernie Sanders have voiced antitrust worries, and many people working in the film industry are afraid to speak out publicly. In a letter to Congress, anonymous filmmakers warned that a Netflix takeover could severely harm movie theaters, comparing it to a “noose.” Jason Kilar, former CEO of WarnerMedia, bluntly stated on X (formerly Twitter) that selling Warner Bros. Discovery to Netflix would be a highly effective way to stifle competition in Hollywood.

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2025-12-06 02:54