Hollywood unions push back as Netflix’s bid for Warner Bros sparks fears

WEB DESK: Hollywood’s most influential labour groups and cinema operators have come out forcefully against Netflix’s proposed $72 billion acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery, warning that the mega-merger would deepen industry consolidation, threaten thousands of jobs and deal a heavy blow to the theatrical ecosystem.

The deal, which would hand Netflix control of Warner Bros’ storied film catalogue, HBO, and major franchises, is already under review by U.S. and European antitrust regulators. Critics say the takeover represents exactly the kind of corporate concentration competition laws are designed to block.

The Writers Guild of America led the charge, urging regulators to halt the merger outright. Calling Netflix “the world’s largest streaming monopoly in the making,” the guild warned that the acquisition could lead to layoffs, downward pressure on wages and fewer choices for consumers.

Cinema owners, long wary of streaming giants, issued some of the starkest warnings. Cinema United president Michael O’Leary said the takeover poses an “unprecedented threat” to movie theatres, estimating it could wipe out 25 per cent of the annual domestic box office. He dismissed Netflix’s occasional theatrical outings as cosmetic gestures tied to awards season, not genuine support for exhibition.

Teamsters Local 399, which represents key behind-the-scenes crew, also urged regulators to reject the merger outright, arguing it jeopardises union jobs and undermines long-term industry stability.

Some guilds opted for a more measured approach. The Directors Guild of America said it would first meet with Netflix to assess the impact, while SAG-AFTRA noted the proposal raises “serious concerns” that require deeper scrutiny.

Netflix, defending the acquisition, said it would generate billions in annual efficiencies, boost content spending and expand creative opportunities. It also pledged to maintain theatrical releases for Warner Bros titles. Warner Bros Discovery has yet to respond to the mounting criticism.