Two US states have opposed a merger of major media companies
Attorneys general from twelve U.S. states have filed a lawsuit against the merger of Paramount, Skydance, and Warner Bros. Discovery, Zamin.uz reports.
The suit aims to block the consolidation, which critics warn could create a monopoly in the media market and lead to higher prices for consumers. The combined entity would be valued at approximately $110 billion.
Major news outlets have highlighted concerns raised by a coalition led by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, who argues the deal violates antitrust laws.
According to the complaint, the merger of two major studios would harm movie theaters, cable distributors, and ordinary viewers by reducing competition and potentially concentrating control over film distribution and blockbuster releases in a single hand.
If completed, the merger would unite Paramount’s streaming platforms, including Paramount+ and HBO Max, along with influential networks such as CBS, MTV, CNN, and HBO under one corporate structure—giving one company control of nearly 30% of the U.S. film distribution market.
Such consolidation could not only drive up service costs but also reduce creative diversity in the industry. As Attorney General Bonta stated, this kind of market concentration limits audiences’ access to important stories.
He emphasized that no one is above the law and that the fight for a fair marketplace must continue. Economists warn that the emergence of dominant market powers can harm competitive environments.
Paramount’s leadership has dismissed these concerns, stating that the merged studio plans to release numerous new films annually and expressing confidence that the deal will close soon.
Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders have also reportedly approved the agreement.
The proposed merger has drawn criticism not only from antitrust regulators but also from filmmakers—directors and actors—who warn that excessive consolidation in media could narrow the space for new ideas.
Although some federal agencies previously concluded the deal would not harm consumers, the lawsuit has now been joined by additional states including Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, and Washington.
The outcome of this case could set a significant precedent for the global media industry. If the states prevail, it may lead to the blocking or major restructuring of one of the largest media mergers in recent years.
