Paramount Settles Antitrust Lawsuit with 12 States, Paving Way for $110B Warner Bros. Acquisition
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Paramount Skydance has reached a settlement with twelve US states that had filed an antitrust lawsuit to block its acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, clearing the way for what is described as the largest merger in Hollywood history, valued at approximately $110 billion. The settlement, reported by US media on September 22, 2026, includes Paramount's commitment to invest additional funds in US film production and to establish a commission to guarantee the editorial independence of CNN and CBS. The deal faces criticism, with Connecticut Attorney General William Tong expressing disappointment that the agreement does not require Paramount to divest CBS and CNN. The merger is politically sensitive because Paramount is controlled by billionaire David Ellison, a close ally of President Donald Trump, who has frequently criticized CNN's coverage. Trump recently barred CNN, MS NOW, and Politico reporters from the White House over alleged fake news. Critics view the deal as an attempt by Trump to gain more influence over the media landscape. A court must still approve the settlement.
Source report
Paramount Skydance has reached a settlement with twelve U.S. states that had sought to block its acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, according to U.S. media reports.
The deal, valued at approximately $110 billion (€96 billion), is expected to be the largest merger in Hollywood history. The states had filed an antitrust lawsuit, arguing that the merger would stifle competition.
Key Terms of the Settlement
- Investment in U.S. production: Paramount has committed to additional investment in film production within the United States, according to California Attorney General Rob Bonta, as reported by the New York Times on Monday (local time).
- Editorial independence: Reports indicate that Paramount will establish a commission to guarantee the editorial independence of CNN and the CBS broadcast network.
Criticism and Next Steps
The agreement has drawn criticism. Connecticut Attorney General William Tong expressed disappointment that the settlement does not require Paramount to divest CBS or CNN, according to Variety. A court must still approve the settlement.
Concerns Over Political Influence
Control of Paramount rests with billionaire David Ellison, a close associate of Donald Trump. Trump has frequently criticized CNN's coverage. Over the weekend, he barred reporters from CNN, MS NOW, and Politico from the White House, citing alleged "fake news."
Paramount secured the winning bid for Warner in February with its $110 billion offer, beating out streaming service Netflix. Trump critics view the deal as an attempt by the president to increase his influence over the media landscape.
Source
taz.de - taz.deWestern
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Paramount Skydance settles with 12 US states, clearing $110 billion Warner Bros. Discovery merger