Hollywood Stars Oppose Proposed Paramount–Warner Bros Merger

More than 1,400 actors, directors, and filmmakers—including several Hollywood heavyweights—have signed an open letter opposing the proposed merger between Paramount Global and Warner Bros. Discovery.

The letter, backed by stars such as Emma Thompson, Ben Stiller, Javier Bardem, and Rose Byrne, warns that the deal could further weaken an already struggling U.S. entertainment industry.

Concerns Over Industry Consolidation

In the statement, the signatories argued that the merger would deepen media consolidation at a critical time for the industry.

“This transaction would further consolidate an already concentrated media landscape, reducing competition at a moment when our industries—and the audiences we serve—can least afford it,” the letter stated.

The proposed deal, reportedly valued at about $111 billion, would reduce the number of major U.S. film studios to just four, raising concerns over job losses and fewer opportunities for creators.

Industry Still Recovering

The opposition comes as the entertainment industry continues to recover from multiple setbacks, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the dual labour union strikes that disrupted productions in 2023.

Analysts say ongoing changes in consumer behaviour and competition from big tech platforms have also reshaped the landscape, forcing traditional studios to explore consolidation strategies.

Paramount Responds

In response, Paramount defended the proposed merger, stating its commitment to supporting creative talent and expanding opportunities for content creators.

The company said it aims to ensure that filmmakers and artists have “more avenues for their work, not fewer.”

Growing List of Opponents

Other notable figures who signed the letter include Kristen Stewart, Kristin Scott Thomas, and Glenn Close, all expressing strong opposition to the deal.

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