Paramount May Go $33 For WBD as Netflix Faces Trump Heat

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I’m following the drama between Paramount and Netflix, and it’s really heating up! It seems like Paramount is determined to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, and they’re reportedly prepared to increase their offer – potentially up to $33 a share – to push Netflix into making a final decision: either outbid them or step aside. It’s a pretty aggressive move, and I’m curious to see how Netflix will respond.

Paramount rumored to consider $33 per share

Recent discussions suggest Paramount might need to offer over $30 per share to succeed in a deal, with $33 being mentioned as a price point that could significantly shift the balance and make Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders reconsider their position.

This doesn’t necessarily mean $33 is the final price. It suggests Paramount might need to propose a higher number to prevent Netflix from dictating the terms of the deal.

WBD already pushed for a higher price

As a film buff, I’m following the Warner Bros. Discovery situation closely, and it seems they’re really pushing for the best possible deal. They’ve basically told Paramount (and anyone else interested) that their first offer wasn’t quite good enough and gave them a limited time to step up. It’s clear WBD wants top dollar, and they’re using a ticking clock to make sure everyone knows they’re serious and to encourage higher bids. They want a quick resolution, and they want the most money possible – it’s pretty straightforward, really.

Netflix gets dragged into politics over Susan Rice

As the dispute between Paramount and Netflix regarding Warner Bros. Discovery continues, Netflix has also faced criticism due to comments made by board member Susan Rice. In a recent podcast, Rice cautioned that businesses supporting Donald Trump might face consequences later on. This clip quickly spread, leading Trump to criticize Netflix and call for Rice’s removal from the board.

Ted Sarandos immediately tried to dismiss the issue, stating that Condoleezza Rice’s position on the board wasn’t about politics and Warner Bros. Discovery’s actions were simply a business decision. However, the timing is difficult for Netflix, as this controversy arose during a crucial period of acquisition negotiations already under intense regulatory scrutiny.

Why the Trump-Rice blowback matters right now

Even seemingly minor issues can worry investors and make dealmaking harder. Paramount is attempting to increase its offer and appear as the more straightforward option. Meanwhile, Netflix wants to focus the discussion on cost and business decisions, rather than external controversies.

What to watch next

If Paramount increases its bid, Netflix will need to decide if it wants to meet that offer, exceed it, or withdraw from the competition. The next step will probably depend on the financial details, how quickly each company can close the deal, and which one regulators are more likely to approve.

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2026-02-23 22:01