
The Media Show The battle for Warner Bros, Eurovision controversy latest over Israel participation, festive TV battles and Meta’s pivot to AI.
Dec 10, 2025
Natalie Jarvey, an entertainment reporter, discusses Netflix's monumental $72 billion acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery, exploring the implications for iconic franchises like Harry Potter. Mark Savage, a BBC music reporter, dives into the Eurovision controversy, revealing participant withdrawals and the debate over Israel’s inclusion. Lastly, Alex Hern, an AI correspondent, examines Meta's pivot from metaverse ambitions to investing in artificial intelligence and wearables, questioning the future of VR and the significance of AI in this new direction.
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Netflix Buys Franchises To Build An Ecosystem
- Netflix seeks Warner Bros Discovery to gain long-lived franchises like Harry Potter and Game of Thrones to strengthen subscriber loyalty.
- Owning that IP would let Netflix build merchandise, theme parks, and deeper ecosystem revenues beyond streaming.
Acquisition Could Shorten Theatrical Windows
- Industry players fear Netflix's cultural approach could shorten theatrical runs and reshape revenue for creatives.
- That shift may reduce box-office windfalls and change how filmmakers and talent negotiate pay.
Paramount Needs Scale To Compete
- Paramount Skydance bids to acquire Warner to scale up and compete with Netflix and Disney Plus.
- For mid-tier studios, acquisition is a fast route to bulk IP and expanded streaming footprint.





