Netflix Announces $82.7 Billion Acquisition of Warner Bros. Following Discovery Global Separation
Netflix has announced one of the most groundbreaking entertainment moves of the decade: an $82.7 billion acquisition of Warner Bros., set to take effect once Discovery Global completes its official split in 2026. The announcement has sent ripples across the entertainment, streaming and gaming industries, cementing Netflix’s ambition to become the world’s definitive content powerhouse.
A Historic Deal That Reshapes the Streaming Landscape
Once finalized, the acquisition will hand Netflix the entire Warner Bros. entertainment ecosystem. This includes its film and TV studios, HBO, HBO Max, and a massive catalogue of globally beloved franchises. Netflix also confirmed that Warner Bros.’ theatrical operations will continue as usual, maintaining the brand’s legacy while integrating it into Netflix’s expanding global strategy.
Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos emphasized the company’s long-term vision:
Today, Netflix announced our acquisition of Warner Bros. Together, we’ll define the next century of storytelling, creating an extraordinary entertainment offering for audiences everywhere. https://t.co/rXPFMNIs1A pic.twitter.com/0pdsMUEob8
— Netflix (@netflix) December 5, 2025
“By combining Warner Bros.’ incredible library of shows and movies with our culture-defining titles, we’ll be able to entertain the world even better. Together, we can help define the next century of storytelling.”
Warner Bros. Discovery Leaders Welcome the Merger
David Zaslav, President and CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, shared similar optimism, stating:
“This announcement brings together two of the greatest storytelling companies in the world. By joining Netflix, we ensure people everywhere can enjoy the world’s most resonant stories for generations to come.”
The union of these entertainment giants reflects a shared mission: to expand global reach, strengthen franchise capabilities and provide unmatched storytelling experiences.
A New Era for Netflix’s Mobile Gaming Ambitions
For mobile gamers, the implications are enormous. Netflix has steadily expanded its Netflix Games lineup, and the addition of Warner Bros.’ worlds places immense creative potential at its fingertips.
This includes access to iconic universes such as:
- DC Universe
- Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Game of Thrones
- Monsterverse (Godzilla, Kong)
- And numerous other properties from HBO and Warner Bros.
These worlds are rich with lore and built-in fanbases—prime material for new mobile games, cross-media experiences and experimental projects that blend streaming and gaming.
Regulatory Checks and 2026 Closure Timeline
For now, the acquisition is pending regulatory review, shareholder approval, and the official separation of Discovery Global into its own entity. Following the split, Discovery Global will continue managing its entertainment, sports and news television brands worldwide.
Once all conditions are met, Netflix will officially become the owner of one of the largest entertainment libraries on the planet, redefining its position in both streaming and gaming for years to come.
