World Business Report Netflix to take over Warner Bros film and streaming business
Dec 5, 2025
Michael O'Leary, CEO of Cinema United, discusses the potential threats to movie theaters from Netflix's massive $72 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. He warns of fewer theatrical releases and shorter windows. Chris Lowe, Chief Economist at FHN Financial, provides an economic perspective on the merger, highlighting the likelihood of regulatory scrutiny in the current media landscape. Together, they explore how this deal could reshape the media industry and impact consumer choices.
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Massive $72bn Media Consolidation
- Netflix agreed to buy Warner Bros' streaming and studio business for $72bn, combining vast IP like Harry Potter and Game of Thrones.
- KJ Matthews called the deal mind‑boggling and predicted major industry reshaping and possible price rises for consumers.
Broad Political And Union Pushback
- Industry groups and both parties in US politics voiced concern about the deal's impact on jobs, prices and creative culture.
- The Producers Guild warned studios are more than content libraries and urged close scrutiny of the acquisition.
Theatre Owners Fear Reduced Filmmaking
- Cinema owners fear Netflix's track record of short theatrical windows will reduce theatrical releases and threaten cinema viability.
- Michael O'Leary warned fewer theatrical slates, closures and job losses if Netflix deprioritises cinemas.