Did you think Paramount Global's potential acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery was a done deal? Think again. Today, over 1,000 Hollywood professionals, both in front of and behind the camera, published an open letter vowing to oppose the merger. Their concerns include a reduction in financed projects, leading to fewer opportunities for creators, job losses, a decline in mid-budget films, the shrinking of independent distribution channels, and the consolidation of major studios to just four.
Among the prominent figures who signed the petition are Jane Fonda, Ke Huy Quan, David Fincher, Ben Stiller, Rose Byrne, Adam McKay, John Cusack, Emma Thompson, Mark Ruffalo, Javier Bardem, Yorgos Lanthimos, J.J. Abrams, Lily Gladstone, Kristen Stewart, Joaquin Phoenix, and Denis Villeneuve. The complete list of signatories and the full statement can be found at BlockTheMerger.com.
Following the public announcement of the petition, Paramount Global swiftly issued a statement in response. In their statement, they acknowledged understanding the concerns raised by their industry peers but firmly clarified that the company is well-capitalized and intends to invest in and produce more film and television projects, aiming to ensure more creative avenues for artists. Paramount Global also reiterated its prior commitment to releasing at least 30 theatrical films annually.
via： BlockTheMerger.com