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In the world of entertainment, some moments are not just news but change the course of history. Today, Netflix has stunned all of Hollywood with one such decision. As soon as people woke up and heard that the Netflix Warner Bros Deal had been announced, excitement stirred everywhere, from social media to studio offices.
Netflix, which has always adopted the philosophy of “building it ourselves,” is now making its first major acquisition, that of giants like Warner Bros. and HBO.
What is the Full Story Behind This Historic Agreement?
Netflix has announced a deal with Warner Bros. Discovery for approximately $72 billion (including debt). If this deal goes through, it will mark the biggest transformation in the entertainment world—a change that could determine the direction of both streaming and traditional films.
With this, Netflix will gain control of franchises that the world still loves dearly—Batman, Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, and several decade-defining cinematic universes. These are the classics without which the very imagination of Hollywood seems incomplete.
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Warner Bros. Discovery to Split into Two Parts in 2026
Warner Bros. Discovery has announced that it will divide into two separate units in 2026.
- One part will be “Warner,” which Netflix will acquire.
- The second part will become “Discovery Global,” which includes CNN and other cable channels.
After this division, Netflix’s acquisition can move towards its final stage.
Turmoil in Hollywood—A Big Jolt to Paramount and Comcast
For several weeks, it was believed that Paramount would win the bid. But Netflix suddenly changed the game by making two aggressive proposals. Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos himself admitted: “We know we don’t usually buy; we build things ourselves. But this opportunity doesn’t come around often.”
He stated that several previous unsuccessful deals failed because the companies “didn’t even understand the language of entertainment.” But Netflix claims that it understands this business from the inside—and this is the strength of this deal.
The Major Challenge of Antitrust—Strict Scrutiny Worldwide
As spectacular as this deal sounds, it is equally legally complex. It will have to undergo intense scrutiny in both the US and Europe. Some leaders have already expressed concern that such a large acquisition could create an imbalance in the market.
Senator Mike Lee warned, “This deal is an alarm for antitrust agencies around the world.”
Netflix has also, as a precaution, agreed to pay a heavy breakup fee, similar to Paramount—meaning, if the deal fails, it will have to face losses of billions of dollars.
Netflix Claims—We Will Strengthen the Industry
Netflix says the deal will create new opportunities for the “creative community.” Co-CEO Greg Peters said: “Warner Bros. has defined entertainment for a hundred years. Our global reach will take these stories even further.”
Netflix says it will continue Warner Bros.’ theatrical releases, even though theatre owners are questioning this.
Are the Streaming Wars About to End?
A recent Bank of America report is very clear: If this deal goes through, the streaming wars will be largely over. Netflix will no longer be just a streamer, but will become “Hollywood’s biggest global powerhouse.”
Disclaimer:
This article is prepared based on available news reports and public information. Official deal confirmation, terms, and timeline depend on regulatory review and company announcements. This is a developing story. Readers are requested to confirm with official sources before drawing any final conclusions.
Dr. Bidyut Barun Sarmah, with 22+ years of experience in print, electronic, and digital media, holds an MA and PhD in Mass Communication and Journalism. He has worked with AIR, Doordarshan, and the Publication Division under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. A published author and researcher, Dr. Sarmah writes extensively in both Assamese and English. He was also awarded a prestigious fellowship by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, for his study on journalistic literature—an achievement that highlights his depth of scholarship and contribution to media studies. At Nest of News, he leads the editorial team and contributes across diverse topics.