Netflix has shaken the entertainment world with a groundbreaking move: the acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery for an astonishing $83 billion, making it the largest deal in the history of the industry. The purchase even surpasses Microsoft’s $69 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard in 2023.
The sale comes after months of financial turbulence and strategic missteps at Warner, including rebranding issues and the decline of HBO Max. Paramount also showed interest, but Netflix ultimately secured the deal.
By absorbing one of Hollywood’s most influential studios, Netflix dramatically strengthens its position in the global market—sparking immediate concerns from unions, guilds, and industry groups that have asked the U.S. Congress to intervene to prevent excessive consolidation. Regulators are expected to impose conditions similar to those in the Microsoft–Activision case to ensure market fairness.
What happens to HBO?
Netflix confirmed that HBO will continue operating as a premium add-on for now. Still, many analysts predict that eventually the brand could be integrated into the Netflix ecosystem. A likely scenario is the creation of a higher-tier plan combining Netflix content with HBO’s premium catalog.
Cinemas and physical media at risk
The acquisition raises questions about the future of theatrical releases. Warner was one of the last major studios committed to consistent cinema premieres, while Netflix traditionally limits theatrical runs. Exhibitors fear a significant decline in long-term cinema output.
Physical media could also face a sharp downturn. Warner still releases films on Blu-ray and DVD, but Netflix barely does—suggesting physical distribution may fade over time.
Major franchises now in Netflix’s hands
This deal gives Netflix control over several powerhouse properties:
- DC Universe: the reboot led by James Gunn and Peter Safran now reports to Netflix.
- Harry Potter: the planned HBO series for 2026 may shift to Netflix.
- Game of Thrones: spin-offs like House of the Dragon may remain under the HBO brand within a premium offering.
- The Lord of the Rings: Warner’s upcoming films could challenge Amazon’s TV rights.
- Cartoon Network & Adult Swim: franchises like Rick and Morty and Looney Tunes move to Netflix.
- Video Games: studios such as Rocksteady, Avalanche, and NetherRealm also come under Netflix control, though their future integration remains uncertain.
A move that could trigger an industry-wide chain reaction
Analysts warn that this deal could spark a new wave of mergers. Disney, Amazon, and others may pursue acquisitions to keep pace with Netflix’s rapid expansion.
With potential layoffs, catalog changes, and a redefinition of traditional media structures, the industry is bracing for massive transformation across streaming, cinema, television, and gaming.
Although regulatory approval is still pending, the consensus is the same: Netflix’s acquisition of Warner marks a turning point that reshapes the global entertainment landscape.
Fuente: CNN Chile.
