Hollywood stars and filmmakers oppose proposed Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery merger

Los Angeles. More than 1,400 individuals, including hundreds of major Hollywood actors and filmmakers, have signed an open letter opposing the proposed merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery.

The letter has been signed by artists including Emma Thompson, Ben Stiller, Javier Bardem, and Rose Byrne. They have warned that this merger will reduce competition and limit opportunities in the American entertainment industry.

According to the signatories, this deal will further consolidate the already pressured film and TV industry. It is stated that the merger will reduce opportunities for creators, cut jobs, weaken competition in content production, and limit choices for audiences. The value of the merger is estimated at approximately $111 billion. It has been warned that if the merger proposal proceeds, the number of major American film studios will decrease further, and the industry will be limited to a few large companies.

Other artists opposing this merger include Kristen Stewart, Glenn Close, and Kristin Scott Thomas. They have clearly expressed their opposition, stating that regulatory bodies should block the deal. Paramount Skydance, in response, has claimed that this merger will provide more opportunities for creators and support more projects.

According to the company, there is a plan to produce and release at least 30 high-quality films globally each year after the merger. Additionally, they have stated they will "prioritize creativity and strengthen the industry." The final decision on this merger will be made by regulatory bodies, which will include the role of California Attorney General Rob Bonta.