David Ellison, the owner of Paramount and Skydance, is intensifying efforts to secure political and entertainment support for his **$108.4 billion** hostile takeover bid for Warner Bros. Discovery. The campaign has now shifted to Europe, where Ellison is engaging with influential figures, including **French President Emmanuel Macron** and representatives at the **European Commission**. This move coincides with increasing scrutiny from regulators in both Europe and the United States regarding the proposed acquisition.
Ellison’s trip follows a recent decision by a judge in the **Delaware Chancery Court**, who dismissed Paramount Skydance’s attempt to expedite its lawsuit against Warner Bros. Discovery. The lawsuit aimed to compel the company to disclose financial details concerning the **$83 billion** deal that Netflix has reportedly proposed. The ruling represents a setback in Ellison’s strategy to gather information that could bolster his case against Warner Bros. Discovery.
As Ellison emphasizes his commitment to preserving the theatrical experience, **Ted Sarandos**, co-CEO of Netflix, is making similar assertions. In an interview with **The New York Times**, Sarandos stated that if the acquisition succeeds, Netflix intends to maintain **45-day theatrical windows** for Warner Bros. films. “If we’re going to be in the theatrical business… we want to win. I want to win opening weekend. I want to win box office,” he said. This commitment underscores the competitive landscape as both companies vie for dominance in the film industry.
In light of the challenges presented by regulatory bodies, Ellison’s outreach aims not only to gather support but also to counter the narrative surrounding the merger. The discussions with European leaders may prove pivotal as they navigate the complex regulatory environment that governs such large-scale transactions.
Ellison’s pursuit of partnerships and alliances within the European political landscape reflects a strategic approach to bolster his position in the ongoing battle for Warner Bros. Discovery. By rallying support among key decision-makers, he hopes to influence the regulatory process and mitigate potential obstacles facing the deal.
As the situation develops, the actions of both Ellison and Sarandos will likely shape the future of the entertainment industry, highlighting the importance of theatrical releases in a rapidly evolving market.
