Trump says $72bn Netflix-Warner Bros deal ‘could be a problem’
US President Donald Trump has raised concerns over Netflix’s proposed $72bn (£54bn) acquisition of Warner Brothers Discovery’s movie studio and HBO streaming networks.
Speaking at an event in Washington DC on Sunday, Trump said Netflix holds a “big market share” and that the combined size of the companies “could be a problem”.
The deal, announced on Friday, would bring Warner Brothers franchises such as Harry Potter and Game of Thrones to Netflix, creating a major new media entity. The agreement is yet to be approved by competition authorities.
Netflix, launched in 1997 as a postal DVD rental service, has grown into the world’s largest subscription streaming platform. The merger would consolidate its position as the top streaming service and include franchises like Looney Tunes, The Matrix, and Lord of the Rings.
Completion of the deal is expected after Warner Bros splits its business in the second half of 2026. The US Justice Department’s competition division could challenge the merger if it finds the combined market share too large.
Trump said he would be personally involved in deciding whether the deal should proceed and repeatedly emphasised Netflix’s growing market dominance. He also praised Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, who recently visited the Oval Office.
Industry figures have weighed in on the merger. Blair Westlake, former chair of Universal Studios’ television and networks group, said the key competition concern is the combination of Netflix and HBO. Bill Kovacic, former chair of the US Federal Trade Commission, noted that Trump’s involvement could give the White House unprecedented influence over the deal.
The Writers Guild of America has urged regulators to block the merger, warning it could reduce jobs, depress wages, raise prices, and limit the diversity of content for viewers. Netflix competed with companies like Comcast and Paramount Skydance to secure the deal, with Warner Bros ultimately rejecting rival bids.
Credit: BBC
