The Paramount fight for WBD isn’t over.
Now the NY Post reports the Ellisons are furious after losing the bid to Netflix by just 75 cents a share and are now preparing a counterattack that could blow the deal open.
Ellisons “Livid” After WBD Picks Netflix
The report says that Paramount Skydance offered $30 a share for WBD. Netflix effectively came in at $30.75.
Despite the razor-thin margin, WBD accepted Netflix’s offer, and insiders say the Ellisons believe the process was tilted toward Netflix because of Zaslav’s friendship with Ted Sarandos.
They’re now considering taking their case directly to shareholders in a hostile takeover.
WBD Says Paramount Had “Six Tries”
The Post says that people close to WBD say Paramount had multiple opportunities to top Netflix but failed to deliver guaranteed cash. Netflix’s offer includes a massive breakup fee and billions on hand, which weighed heavily in its favor.
Even so, WBD insiders for the shite admit a higher Paramount bid—around $35 a share—could still flip the entire outcome.
The report even says WBD CEO David Zaslav is open to a counterbid from the Ellisons:
“Despite all the static, Zaslav, known as Zas in media circles, is said to be open for another counterbid from the Ellisons. Anything is possible before any merger closes – particularly one like this where the competition was some of the fiercest in recent corporate history, according to people close to the WBD chief.”
Hostile Bid Still on the Table
The Ellisons may go hostile and argue that a Netflix–WBD merger would face long antitrust pushback under the Trump administration.
Netflix believes recent talks between Sarandos and Trump have eased those concerns.
Either way, the battle isn’t finished. Paramount is gearing up for another move.
Our insiders also said a war is brewing in Hollywood which might involve Trump saving the day.
