Jane Fonda and Other Hollywood Stars Sign Petition Against Paramount's Acquisition of Warner Bros.
Over a thousand film producers, actors, and industry professionals have signed an open letter opposing Paramount Global's $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. They warn that the merger could weaken competition, stress employment, increase costs, and reduce audience choices. Notable actors like Jane Fonda, Joaquin Phoenix, and Mark Ruffalo are among the signatories.
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- 📰 Published: April 14, 2026 at 16:53
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- 🤖 AI Analyzed: April 14, 2026 at 17:39 (37 min after Collected)
Los Angeles, April 13 (Central News Agency) - Over a thousand film producers, actors, and industry professionals have signed an open letter opposing American media conglomerate Paramount Global's $110 billion (approximately NT$3.48 trillion) acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, warning that the move could weaken competition and exacerbate consolidation in the U.S. media industry.
Paramount Skydance announced in February its plan to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery for $110 billion, the latter owning major franchises such as "Harry Potter" and "Game of Thrones."
Reuters reported that well-known actors such as Jane Fonda, Joaquin Phoenix, and Mark Ruffalo participated in the petition. The letter states that the acquisition would lead to fewer opportunities for creators, put pressure on employment in the overall production ecosystem, increase costs, and reduce audience choices.
Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery did not immediately respond to requests for comment. It is understood that the acquisition has the support of U.S. President Donald Trump.
The open letter, released today, states that previous consolidations have already put pressure on the industry, reducing film production and distribution, and further limiting the types of stories that can receive funding and distribution opportunities.
AFP reported that many Hollywood practitioners are concerned about the merger of the two major film companies, believing it could lead to layoffs and budget cuts, especially since this massive deal is reportedly being financed, meaning the new owner will have to find ways to save money.
Layoffs and budget cuts will not only affect creators who drive the development of the U.S. film industry but also squeeze job opportunities for tens of thousands of behind-the-scenes workers, including makeup artists, set designers, limousine operators, food truck operators, and florists in Los Angeles.
This acquisition will consolidate two major Hollywood film companies and their vast content libraries, merging the Paramount+ and HBO Max streaming platforms.
U.S. and European regulators are expected to rigorously review this transaction, assessing its impact on consumers and the creative community. California Attorney General Rob Bonta pointed out that the state government is conducting a relevant investigation and will "strongly" review it. (Compiler: Hung Pei-ying) 1150414
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Paramount Skydance announced in February its plan to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery for $110 billion, the latter owning major franchises such as "Harry Potter" and "Game of Thrones."
Reuters reported that well-known actors such as Jane Fonda, Joaquin Phoenix, and Mark Ruffalo participated in the petition. The letter states that the acquisition would lead to fewer opportunities for creators, put pressure on employment in the overall production ecosystem, increase costs, and reduce audience choices.
Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery did not immediately respond to requests for comment. It is understood that the acquisition has the support of U.S. President Donald Trump.
The open letter, released today, states that previous consolidations have already put pressure on the industry, reducing film production and distribution, and further limiting the types of stories that can receive funding and distribution opportunities.
AFP reported that many Hollywood practitioners are concerned about the merger of the two major film companies, believing it could lead to layoffs and budget cuts, especially since this massive deal is reportedly being financed, meaning the new owner will have to find ways to save money.
Layoffs and budget cuts will not only affect creators who drive the development of the U.S. film industry but also squeeze job opportunities for tens of thousands of behind-the-scenes workers, including makeup artists, set designers, limousine operators, food truck operators, and florists in Los Angeles.
This acquisition will consolidate two major Hollywood film companies and their vast content libraries, merging the Paramount+ and HBO Max streaming platforms.
U.S. and European regulators are expected to rigorously review this transaction, assessing its impact on consumers and the creative community. California Attorney General Rob Bonta pointed out that the state government is conducting a relevant investigation and will "strongly" review it. (Compiler: Hung Pei-ying) 1150414
Choose to stand with facts, every sponsorship you make is the power to protect press freedom.
Download the Central News Agency's "First-hand News" APP to stay updated with the latest news.
The text, images, and videos on this website may not be reproduced, publicly broadcast, or publicly transmitted and used without authorization.
FAQ
What acquisition is being opposed?
The $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery by Paramount Global.
Who signed the open letter?
Over a thousand film producers, actors, and industry professionals, including Jane Fonda, Joaquin Phoenix, and Mark Ruffalo.