Warner Bros Discovery Rejects Paramount, Upholds Netflix Merger
PUBLISHED Dec 17, 2025, 7:17 AM ET
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LOS ANGELES — Warner Bros Discovery’s board on Wednesday rejected Paramount Skydance’s $108.4 billion hostile tender offer, saying the bid lacked adequate financing assurances and that claims it was backstopped by the Ellison family were inaccurate. The board recommended shareholders uphold its binding merger agreement with Netflix, valuing WBD assets at about $82.7 billion and offering $27.75 per share, which it said provided more certain financing and value. Warner cited significant risks in Paramount’s proposal and affirmed confidence in delivering benefits through the Netflix combination. The board expects regulatory review and shareholder vote. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.
By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Dec. 5 — Netflix announces agreement to buy Warner Bros Discovery for about $82.7 billion.
- Dec. 8 — Paramount Skydance launches an all-cash $108.4 billion tender offer (three days later).
- Dec. 17 — Warner Bros Discovery board issues a letter rejecting Paramount's offer, citing financing guarantees.
- Dec. 17 — Board recommends shareholders reject Paramount’s tender and support the binding Netflix merger.
- Following the board letter — regulatory review and shareholder votes remain necessary for completion.
- Articles Published:
- 8
- Right Leaning:
- 1
- Left Leaning:
- 3
- Neutral:
- 4
- Distribution:
- Left 38%, Center 50%, Right 13%
Shareholders who back the binding Netflix merger may benefit from greater financing certainty and the board’s assessment of more predictable value and fewer financing risks.
Paramount Skydance and its supporters suffered a public rebuke and the loss of a potential path to acquire Warner Bros Discovery after the board rejected the tender offer.
Coverage of Story:
From Left
Warner Bros Discovery board rejects rival bid from Paramount
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