David Ellison Warns of “Monopolistic” Netflix in Open U.K. Letter as Paramount Pushes WBD Bid

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David Ellison is openly challenging Netflix as the power struggle over Warner Bros. Discovery intensifies.

As a huge movie fan, I just read an interesting open letter from the head of Paramount Global. He basically shared his thoughts on where the film industry is headed, and he’s a little worried about how much power Netflix is gaining. He was writing to people in the UK creative scene, urging both regulators and filmmakers to be aware of this shift and think about the future.

This news arrives as Paramount aggressively tries to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), directly challenging Netflix’s large offer to buy WBD’s movies and TV shows.

Ellison Frames Storytelling as Cultural Infrastructure

You know, when Ellison started his letter, I immediately felt he wasn’t just talking about Hollywood as a money-making machine. He framed the whole entertainment industry as something way bigger – a vital part of our culture that deserves to be safeguarded. It really set the tone for everything that followed.

As someone who makes movies and TV shows, and has always loved them, I want to clearly state how important visual storytelling is to our society.

He went on to highlight how film and television bring people together. He explained that these mediums go beyond differences in age, background, beliefs, or income, creating connections through common experiences. They not only entertain and motivate us, but also allow us to explore new places, remember the past, and imagine a wider range of possibilities.

Ellison emphasized the importance of this art form, stating it needs to be safeguarded so future generations can continue to experience it.

Paramount’s Case for the WBD Acquisition

According to Ellison, Paramount’s interest in Warner Bros. Discovery isn’t about gaining more control, but about increasing their ability to create and share stories.

We believe these principles guide us as we work towards joining forces with Warner Bros. Discovery,” he said. “Combining our two well-known companies would allow us to create more content, connect with larger audiences, and make a bigger difference.

He also stressed that the merger would increase — not restrict — industry competition.

Ellison argued that more options are better for both creators and viewers, and that a healthy market should support all types of filmmaking, content creation, and movie theaters. He specifically criticized the idea of a single company, like Netflix, becoming so powerful that it stifles competition.

Direct Shot at Netflix’s Market Power

That warning was not abstract.

Ellison clearly explained how his idea for combining Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery was different from the way Netflix has grown its business.

He explained that a combined Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery would be very different from Netflix, aiming to boost competition by building a stronger competitor to the leading streaming services.

Netflix isn’t just another competitor; its size and growth could fundamentally change the entertainment industry if it continues to expand without regulation or opposition.

Commitment to Expanded Film Production

To make the deal look good for the entertainment industry, Ellison promised a significant increase in the number of movies released in theaters.

Paramount and Warner Bros. will each make at least 15 major movies every year, for a combined total of 30 or more films annually. This will provide audiences with great entertainment and help maintain jobs in the film and creative sectors, according to a statement.

Ellison mentioned that Paramount has been increasing the number of films it produces. Since finalizing the deal with Skydance last August, they’ve already boosted production from eight to fifteen films.

Third-Party Licensing Will Continue

Ellison also sought to reassure independent producers and studios concerned about consolidation.

Both studios plan to keep working with other companies by allowing them to distribute their movies and shows on various platforms. They will also continue to purchase content created by these outside studios and independent filmmakers.

HBO Brand Will Be Preserved

A key part of the possible agreement is what will happen with HBO, which is known for producing high-quality, popular shows.

Ellison promised the network would continue to run on its own, stating that HBO will still be able to make the high-quality shows it’s known for, even under new ownership.

Theatrical Windows Protected

Unlike many newer distribution strategies that prioritize streaming, Ellison pledged to continue releasing films in theaters with a strong presence.

All of our films will be shown in movie theaters first. They’ll be available to rent or buy online at least 45 days after they premiere in theaters, and we expect to keep them in theaters for 60 to 90 days – or even longer for popular movies – to give as many people as possible the chance to see them on the big screen.

He also stated that they will continue to follow the established release schedules for each region where they do business.

Home Video and Streaming Sequencing

Ellison also emphasized traditional release sequencing before streaming availability.

After playing in theaters, each movie will become available for rent or purchase digitally, before being added to subscription streaming services, following standard industry practice, he explained.

Regulatory Messaging Across the Atlantic

The letter was aimed directly at people working in the creative industries in the U.K., as well as others with a stake in its success. This was a deliberate choice, as officials in other countries are currently looking at how Netflix’s growth and Paramount’s competing offer will affect the market.

By presenting Netflix as the leading service and Paramount-WBD as a beneficial competitor, Ellison is appealing to both viewers and those who make regulations.

The Streaming War Enters Its Next Phase

With the competition to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery heating up, Larry Ellison’s public statements show this battle is now playing out beyond private negotiations.

Honestly, the battle over Hollywood’s future isn’t happening on screens anymore—it’s playing out everywhere but there. I’m seeing it in news articles, legal documents, and these really public letters where everyone’s trying to convince us they’re the good guys, either safeguarding the industry or, you know, quietly taking over.

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2026-02-05 17:59