Writers Warn of Big Studio Shake‑Up

The Writers Guild of America (WGA) has issued a strong statement against the proposed merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery, warning it poses a significant threat to writers, viewers, and the broader industry.

“Combining two of the biggest film, TV, and streaming companies would eliminate competition and hurt creators.”
— WGA Joint Statement (East & West branches)

Key Concerns

• Loss of Competition
  The merger would remove a major rival, potentially creating a “disaster” for all stakeholders.

• Creative Freedom & Pay
  A larger corporate entity could reduce writers’ creative autonomy, lower wages, and limit job opportunities.

• Industry Impact
  The deal could reshape how stories are produced and who gets to tell them.

Context

• Netflix Acquisition
  The WGA previously labeled Netflix’s purchase of Warner Bros. as a violation of antitrust rules.

• Union Reactions
  While other Hollywood unions have expressed worry, none has taken a firm stance as the WGA has.

• DGA Perspective
  In January, DGA President Christopher Nolan suggested that an independent buyer and distributor would best serve members, though the union remains assessing the merger’s reality.

Call to Action

The WGA urges regulators to block the deal, emphasizing that maintaining competition is essential for a healthy creative ecosystem.