Netflix to Acquire Warner Bros Finding in $83 Billion Deal, signaling Potential End for Customary Cinema
Los Angeles, CA – December 5, 2025 – In a move poised to fundamentally reshape the entertainment landscape, Netflix announced today its acquisition of warner Bros discovery for $83 billion (over 70 billion euros). The deal, formalized in a joint press release, comes as the future of American movie theaters faces increasing uncertainty, with streaming services continuing to dominate consumer viewing habits.
The acquisition marks a dramatic shift for Netflix, which has long maintained a focus on at-home entertainment. As recently as April 2025,CEO Ted Sarandos dismissed the relevance of cinemas,stating in an interview with Time Magazine,”So what is the consumer trying to tell us? That he would prefer to watch movies at home,thank you.” This sentiment echoed his 2023 declaration that “Bringing people to movie theaters is not our buisness.” Now, Netflix will control one of the industry’s most storied film and television studios, a company whose core business is theatrical releases.
The implications of the merger are already reverberating through Hollywood. A collective of cinema owners described the situation as placing the future of American cinemas in a “noose.” The deal arrives amidst a trend of dwindling theatrical attendance, with only blockbuster films drawing important audiences. As Sarandos’ comments suggest, the market appears to be signaling a preference for home viewing, leaving traditional cinemas struggling to adapt.
This acquisition effectively consolidates power in the streaming realm, raising questions about the future distribution models for films and television content. While Warner Bros discovery has a vast library of intellectual property and established production capabilities, its integration into Netflix’s streaming-first strategy remains to be seen. The deal is expected to face regulatory scrutiny, but if approved, it will undoubtedly accelerate the ongoing change of the entertainment industry.
