Over 1,000 Hollywood figures sign letter opposing Warner Bros. Discovery-Paramount merger
More than a thousand individuals from Hollywood, including writers, actors, and directors, have expressed their concerns about Paramount Skydance's possible acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. Among those who signed the letter are well-known figures like Denis Villeneuve, Jane Fonda, Mark Ruffalo, David Fincher, and Emma Thompson, along with Lin-Manuel Miranda and Joaquin Phoenix. They released their statement on Monday, arguing that this merger could worsen the already troubled entertainment industry, potentially reducing job opportunities and leading to layoffs. Additionally, Paramount has initiated legal action against Warner's management over their Netflix deal preferences.
Key facts
- Over 1,000 Hollywood professionals signed a letter opposing the Warner Bros. Discovery-Paramount Skydance merger.
- Signatories include Denis Villeneuve, Jane Fonda, Mark Ruffalo, David Fincher, Emma Thompson, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Kristen Stewart, Joaquin Phoenix, JJ Abrams, Yorgos Lanthimos, Noah Wyle, Sally Field, Rose Byrne, Ben Stiller, Kristin Scott Thomas, Bryan Cranston, and Petra Costa.
- The letter was published on Monday.
- Signatories warn the merger will create fewer opportunities for creators and reduce production jobs.
- The letter states the merger would harm an already struggling entertainment industry.
- Paramount has taken Warner Bros. Discovery leadership to court regarding preferences for a Netflix offer.
- The signatories consider the operation detrimental to the entertainment sector.
Entities
Artists
- Denis Villeneuve
- Jane Fonda
- Mark Ruffalo
- David Fincher
- Emma Thompson
- Lin-Manuel Miranda
- Kristen Stewart
- Joaquin Phoenix
- JJ Abrams
- Yorgos Lanthimos
- Noah Wyle
- Sally Field
- Rose Byrne
- Ben Stiller
- Kristin Scott Thomas
- Bryan Cranston
- Petra Costa
Institutions
- Warner Bros. Discovery
- Paramount Skydance
- Netflix