Perhaps You Should Hope for Donald Trump to Block Netflix's Acquisition of Warner Bros.

Netflix has officially outbid Paramount Skydance and Comcast, emerging as the victor in the competition to acquire Warner Bros. The announcement brought mixed reactions: relief for some, concern for others. While Netflix faces its own challenges, many see it as a preferable alternative to the Ellison family controlling yet another media empire.

The Ellison Expansion

Two years ago, Larry and David Ellisons primary media asset was the production company behind Top Gun. Today, they control Paramount, are pursuing Warner Bros. Discovery, and Larry Ellison is also connected to a TikTok acquisition. Historically, the Ellisons have shown a willingness to align with the Trump administration when it benefits their business. After acquiring CBS News via Paramount, they reportedly influenced network staffing and discussed potential changes with the administration, including possible moves at CNN.

Implications of the Netflix Deal

While Netflixs acquisition of Warner Bros. prevents the Ellisons from expanding further into entertainment, it introduces significant concerns. Combining Netflix with a powerhouse like Warner Bros. could cement Netflixs dominance in streaming, leaving competitors struggling to keep up. Fans of franchises such as Game of Thrones, Yellowstone, Harry Potter, and the DC Universe may benefit from a consolidated streaming home, but the broader market risks becoming monopolized.

Impact on Movie Theaters

Theatrical releases could face major setbacks. Netflix has committed to limited theatrical windows, but recent releases have had extremely short runs. Big-budget films like Frankenstein received only three weeks in theaters. Warner Bros. had a strong box office year in 2025, surpassing $4 billion thanks to hits like Superman and Sinners. Shifting these films predominantly to streaming could harm theater revenues and affect the industry as a whole.

Limits of the Netflix Solution

While Netflix may block the Ellisons from acquiring Warner Bros., it does nothing to prevent them from taking control of other media outlets, such as CNN. Warner Bros. Discoverys cable assets are being separated into Discovery Global, leaving the Ellisons free to pursue news networks. The Netflix acquisition may reduce competition and further empower a single tech giant without addressing concerns about billionaire influence in news media.

Could Trump Intervene?

There is a possibility that Paramount Skydance will challenge the acquisition, potentially using antitrust laws. Interestingly, this opens the door for Trumps Federal Trade Commission to block the deal, potentially for personal or ideological reasons. In this context, a Trump-led intervention might not be entirely negative, as it could prevent a major consolidation in streaming and protect theatrical releases, while still leaving the Ellisons news ambitions separate.

Author: Gavin Porter