（Image Source: Paramount Global, Skydance Media, Warner Bros. Discovery）
Skydance Media, the long-time co-producer with Paramount Pictures on franchises like "Mission: Impossible" and "Top Gun," recently finalized an $8.4 billion merger with Paramount Global. Today, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) exclusively reported that Skydance is now considering an acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, aiming to further expand its media empire. This news sent Warner Bros. Discovery's stock soaring in afternoon trading.
（Image Source: Warner Bros. Discovery）
Meanwhile, entertainment outlet Deadline reported that sources close to Skydance founder David Ellison indicated he has been eyeing Warner Bros. for some time, and this latest development signifies a more serious evaluation. While previous industry speculation suggested Ellison was primarily interested in acquiring Warner Bros. Pictures, the current rumors indicate a broader ambition to acquire the entire Warner Bros. Discovery entity, encompassing the film studio and other assets.
Warner Bros. Discovery is currently undergoing a strategic split, reportedly preparing to divide into two separate companies: one focused on "streaming and film studio" operations, and the other on "global television networks." However, Skydance reportedly aims to acquire both entities.