Netflix reassures subscribers that 'Nothing is Changing Today' following Warner Bros. deal announcement

Following the announcement of its major deal to acquire Warner Bros. and HBO Max, Netflix is reassuring users that its platform and subscription plans will remain the same for now. On Friday evening, the company emailed millions of subscribers with the subject line: Welcoming Warner Bros. to Netflix.

The message highlighted the significance of the acquisition: Netflix will acquire Warner Bros., including its film and television studios, HBO Max, and HBO. This brings together some of the worlds most famous franchises like Harry Potter, Friends, The Big Bang Theory, Casablanca, Game of Thrones, and the DC Universe alongside Netflix originals such as Stranger Things, Wednesday, Squid Game, Bridgerton, and KPop Demon Hunters.

What Remains the Same

The email emphasized that, for the moment, nothing is changing: Both streaming services will continue to operate separately. Netflix had previously stated that HBO Max would continue as a distinct service, and the email reaffirmed that point. Subscribers were reminded that regulatory approvals and shareholder consent are still required before the deal is finalized. Netflix stated, Youll hear from us when we have more to share. In the meantime, enjoy your current membership plan as usual.

Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery anticipate completing the transaction within 12-18 months, pending regulatory and shareholder approvals. The acquisition covers Warner Bros. film and TV studios, HBO Max, HBO, and Warner Bros. Games, with an equity value of $72 billion and an enterprise value of $82.7 billion, including debt.

Additional Details

The email also included a link to a help-center FAQ regarding the Warner Bros. deal. One question addressed potential overlap with HBO Max subscriptions: Netflix and Warner Bros. will remain separate until the transaction is closed. The message concluded: Thank you for choosing Netflix. Were committed to bringing you more TV shows, movies, games, and live programming.

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos confirmed that Warner Bros. studio operations will continue independently, with movies still being released in theaters. Over time, theatrical release windows will become shorter and more consumer-friendly.

Author: Connor Blake