Why is Trump voicing concern over Netflix-Warner Bros. takeover?

WEB DESK: US President Donald Trump on Sunday signalled reservations about Netflix’s bid to purchase Warner Bros., suggesting the streaming platform’s already dominant position in the market could complicate the deal.

Speaking to reporters as he arrived at the Kennedy Center Honors, Trump said he expects to play a role in the federal review of the nearly USD83 billion proposal, which is currently under scrutiny for possible antitrust violations. “I’ll be involved in that decision,” he remarked, noting the scale of the acquisition.

Despite his concerns, Trump praised Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, who recently visited the White House, describing him as someone who has achieved “one of the greatest jobs in the history of movies.”

If approved, the purchase would fold HBO Max and Warner Bros. into Netflix’s operations, handing the streaming giant control of one of Hollywood’s most influential studios. Warner Bros.’ storied archive ranges from classics like Casablanca to modern mega-hits such as Barbie, alongside major franchises including Harry Potter, The Lord of the Rings, and the DC superhero universe.

However, the agreement does not cover linear television networks such as CNN and Discovery, which would be separated from Warner Bros. before any sale is finalised.

Warner Bros. Discovery put itself on the market in October after receiving several unsolicited bids, edging out interest from Comcast and Paramount Skydance. Paramount chief David Ellison, a prominent supporter of Trump, had also been linked to earlier overtures.