Netflix Hit With Consumer Class-Action Lawsuit Over WBD Deal

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A new lawsuit is attempting to block Netflix‘s proposed $72 billion acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery, signaling early legal challenges to the deal.

A subscriber to HBO Max has filed a complaint claiming the merger will lessen competition in the streaming industry and give Netflix too much power over popular franchises like DC Comics, Harry Potter, and Game of Thrones.

Lawsuit Says Deal Threatens Competition

The Guardian reports that the person suing claims the deal will essentially eliminate HBO Max as a major rival to Netflix.

I believe this lawsuit highlights a real concern: Netflix keeps raising prices, even though they have strong competition from companies like Warner Bros. Discovery. Getting rid of a major competitor like us could actually let them jack up prices even more, and that’s not fair to viewers like me.

Generally, people can challenge mergers in court under federal antitrust laws, even if government agencies aren’t taking action. However, these cases are often difficult to win.

The lawyers representing the parties involved chose not to make a statement. Netflix, however, called the lawsuit baseless and suggested it was filed simply to gain publicity from the recent agreement.

Paramount Enters With Hostile $108.4 Billion Bid

This week, Paramount and Skydance made a competing $108.4 billion offer for Warner Bros Discovery, escalating the battle with Netflix, which had already made a proposal.

Warner Bros. Discovery’s board is now considering Paramount’s offer as competition heats up to acquire the company. No matter who ends up taking over, a lengthy and complex legal and regulatory review process is expected.

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2025-12-10 08:31