Over 1,000 Hollywood figures oppose proposed Paramount–Warner Bros. merger, warning of job losses and industry consolidation
More than 1,000 actors, directors, writers, and other entertainment industry professionals have voiced strong opposition to the proposed Paramount merger with Warner Bros. Discovery, warning that the deal could significantly reshape Hollywood and reduce opportunities across the industry. In an open letter released Monday, prominent figures including Denis Villeneuve, Kristen Stewart, J.J. Abrams, and Joaquin Phoenix criticized the $111 billion acquisition, arguing it would lead to fewer films being made, fewer jobs, and reduced creative output at a time when the industry is already facing contraction.
The letter warns that consolidating the two major studios would narrow the landscape of U.S. film production, reducing the number of major studios and limiting competition. It also argues that the merger would increase costs for production and diminish choice for audiences worldwide. The deal, led by Paramount Skydance chief executive David Ellison, would combine two of Hollywood’s most established studios, pending shareholder approval and regulatory review. Ellison has said both studios would continue operating separately in name and pledged to maintain a strong theatrical release slate, though the company has also acknowledged that job cuts would be likely due to overlapping operations.
In response, Paramount has defended the proposed merger, arguing it would expand creative opportunities and provide filmmakers with more resources and platforms to develop projects. The company says the combined entity would be better positioned to support talent at different stages of their careers and deliver content on a global scale. However, critics within the industry argue that the consolidation would concentrate power among fewer companies and lead to widespread job losses.
The open letter was organized by a coalition of industry advocacy groups and includes support from a wide range of high-profile names such as Ben Stiller, Don Cheadle, Javier Bardem, Lily Gladstone, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Tiffany Haddish, and Ted Danson. Some signatories, including writer and producer Damon Lindelof, have publicly explained their concerns, saying that large media mergers typically result in fewer productions and fewer employment opportunities, with one studio often becoming underused or sidelined.
The proposed deal follows a broader trend of consolidation in Hollywood in recent years and is still awaiting both shareholder approval and regulatory review.
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