Jane Fonda warns of potential industry destruction due to "Catastrophic" Netflix-Warner Bros. Deal

Jane Fonda has spoken out regarding Netflixs proposed $82.7 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. On Friday evening, she shared a joint message on Instagram alongside the Committee for the First Amendment. The post described the merger as a troubling escalation of consolidation that endangers the entire entertainment sector, the democratic public it serves, and the protections of the First Amendment.

The statement emphasized, This is more than a disastrous corporate transaction that could harm our creative industry. It represents a constitutional crisis, intensified by the administrations apparent disregard for legal norms.

Fonda addressed the Department of Justice directly, stating, We urge you to refrain entirely from leveraging your authority to secure political favors that could affect content decisions or suppress free expression.

The post also criticized Netflix and other potential participants in the deal, warning, As guardians of an industry founded on free speech, you have a duty to safeguard these rights rather than sacrifice them for profit. Pressure will be immense, but resilience is essential.

Should Netflix acquire Warner Bros., it would gain control over Warner Bros. film and television studios, as well as HBO and HBO Max, while adhering to regulatory oversight. Ted Sarandos, Netflixs co-CEO, highlighted in a press release on Friday morning that combining Warner Bros. vast catalog from classics like Casablanca and Citizen Kane to contemporary hits like Harry Potter and Friends with Netflix originals such as Stranger Things, KPop Demon Hunters, and Squid Game would enhance audience experiences. Together, we aim to deliver even more content audiences love and shape storytelling for the next century, Sarandos said.

The statement confirmed that Warner Bros. films are expected to continue being released in theaters despite the acquisition.

Author: Natalie Monroe