Subscribers Sue to Block Paramount's $110 Billion Warner Bros. Discovery Merger

Paramount subscribers filed a lawsuit in California federal court on Thursday to block Paramount's $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, alleging antitrust violations. The complaint claims the merger will reduce competition in streaming, news, and theatrical distribution, leading to higher prices, reduced output, and lower quality. The combined entity would become the third largest streaming platform behind Netflix and Disney, with $17.9 billion in streaming revenue, and control roughly 24% of the theatrical distribution market. The lawsuit also targets Skydance's acquisition of Paramount, arguing it reflects a strategy of consolidation rather than competition. California Attorney General Rob Bonta confirmed an open investigation into the deal. Paramount called the lawsuit "without merit," asserting the merger will create a stronger competitor. The Justice Department, state attorneys general, the EU, and the FCC are also reviewing the deal. President Trump has reportedly supported Paramount's bid. The lawsuit seeks a court order blocking the merger and unwinding Skydance's acquisition.