Netflix Moves To Acquire Warner Bros Discovery In $82.7 Billion Deal

Netflix has revealed plans to purchase Warner Bros Discovery (WBD) in a major transaction valued at roughly $82.7 billion, aiming to unite its global streaming operations with a vast film and television production empire.

The proposal will now face scrutiny from US antitrust authorities due to the enormous influence the companies hold across the entertainment industry.

In its announcement late on Friday, Netflix noted, “This acquisition brings together two pioneering entertainment businesses, combining Netflix’s innovation, global reach and best-in-class streaming service with Warner Bros’ century-long legacy of world-class storytelling.”

WBD chief executive David Zaslav welcomed the decision, stating, “By coming together with Netflix, we will ensure people everywhere will continue to enjoy the world’s most resonant stories for generations to come.”

Both companies already operate extensively in the Indian market.

Deal Structure

As part of the terms, Netflix said the deal would finalise once WBD separates its cable networks, including CNN, TNT and Discovery, into a different company.

The streaming giant outbid rivals Comcast and Paramount, offering $27.75 per share to secure the agreement.

Netflix currently has around 12.4 million subscribers in India, making it the platform’s seventh-largest audience base.

Warner Bros films have long been popular in Indian cinemas, and the company has been expanding its involvement in Bollywood, having distributed titles such as Saas Bahu Sensex.

In June, WBD also announced a collaboration with Bhanushali Studios Limited and JOAT Films to create five local adaptations of its films.

The acquisition would grant Netflix access to WBD’s celebrated library of classics, including Casablanca, The Maltese Falcon, Bonnie and Clyde, Chariots of Fire and The Wizard of Oz, the latter acquired previously through MGM.

WBD’s streaming arm, HBO Max and superhero powerhouse DC Studios would also be folded into Netflix’s offerings.

Netflix, which began as a postal DVD rental business, has transformed into a leading global streaming service while expanding into original film production in numerous languages.

Among the films distributed by the company is Dhoom Dhaam.

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