Netflix’s Blockbuster Move: Acquires Warner Bros. for $85 Billion

The Papers: 'Netflix seals $85bn Warner Bros deal' and 'One L of a draw'

New York, December 06, 2025

Netflix has agreed to acquire Warner Bros. for approximately $82.7 billion in enterprise value, with an equity value near $72 billion, following Warner Bros.’ separation from Discovery Global. This acquisition is set to significantly reshape the media and entertainment industry.

Details of the Acquisition
Netflix’s purchase of Warner Bros. is among the largest recent transactions in the media sector. By combining its established streaming platform with Warner Bros.’ extensive content library and production infrastructure, Netflix aims to solidify its leading position in the global entertainment market. The deal reflects a strategic investment to enhance content ownership and accelerate streaming dominance worldwide.

Background of the Transaction
This acquisition follows the strategic separation of Warner Bros. from Discovery Global, creating an independent Warner Bros. entity. The spin-off enabled Netflix to negotiate directly for Warner Bros., allowing the deal to proceed without complications arising from the previous corporate structure. This move positions Warner Bros. as a standalone asset available for acquisition.

Implications for the Media Industry
The deal is poised to alter competitive dynamics within the streaming and broader entertainment markets. Combining Netflix’s subscriber base and technological platform with Warner Bros.’ content production capabilities will heighten competition with other media conglomerates and streaming services. Industry analysts anticipate increased consolidation as companies seek stronger content portfolios to capture consumer attention.

Future Outlook
The Netflix-Warner Bros. acquisition signals a new phase of media consolidation with far-reaching impacts for stakeholders, including investors, content creators, and consumers. How Netflix integrates Warner Bros. and leverages its vast content assets will be critical in shaping the future landscape of entertainment distribution. This transaction marks a key milestone in the evolution of streaming as the dominant format for media consumption globally.