Opinion: Deal over Paramount-Warner merger may not cure Hollywood’s ills

A Biden-appointed federal judge is scrutinizing the proposed merger between Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery to ensure the negotiated settlement complies with federal antitrust law. This virtual hearing occurred three days after California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced an agreement between the parties. While Bonta praised the deal, some opinions suggest the merger primarily benefits the Ellisons and provides only token concessions for Southern California production, failing to address broader issues within Hollywood.