Netflix boss says $83bn Warner Bros takeover will benefit industry

The Guardian - World NewsEN 3 min read 100% complete by Alex DanielFebruary 23, 2026 at 12:08 PM

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medium article 3 min

Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos defended the company's $83 billion takeover bid for Warner Bros Discovery (WBD), arguing it would benefit the entertainment industry by fostering growth, contrasting it with Paramount's potential counter offer which he claims would involve significant cuts. Sarandos stated that Netflix's acquisition would add to the market, while Paramount's would consolidate studios. The comments come amidst a bidding war between Netflix and Paramount for WBD, with Paramount having until the end of Monday to submit a final offer. The proposed deal has faced criticism over potential market consolidation. Sarandos also defended Netflix's contributions to the UK entertainment industry following calls for a competition review of the deal.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Larry Ellison 40% Joe Biden 40% Barack Obama 40% Susan Rice 50% United Kingdom ×360% Donald Trump 60% Paramount ×675% Ted Sarandos ×480% Warner Bros Discovery (WBD) ×685% Netflix ×890%

Keywords

takeover 100% netflix 90% warner bros discovery 80% paramount 70% streaming 60% entertainment industry 50% media mergers 50% studio business 40% competition 40%