Jane Fonda Criticizes Netflix-Warner Bros Agreement
Jane Fonda has voiced strong opposition to the recently announced $82.7 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. by Netflix. This deal, which values Warner Bros. Discovery at $27.75 per share, includes the film and TV studios of HBO and HBO Max and is currently under regulatory scrutiny.
Fonda’s Concerns Over the Netflix-Warner Bros. Agreement
Fonda critiqued the merger, referring to it as a “catastrophic” move that could escalate into a “constitutional crisis.” She issued a statement on behalf of the Committee for the First Amendment, which she recently revived. Fonda’s group, which has garnered support from over 550 industry figures, is poised to challenge the implications of this deal.
Call to Action for the Justice Department
- Fonda urged the Department of Justice and state attorneys general to conduct a thorough antitrust review.
- She emphasized the need for these authorities to resist political pressures that could influence content decisions.
In her statement, Fonda said, “We know this deal — or any deal of this magnitude — will trigger your antitrust review obligation. We demand that you refrain from using that power to extract political concessions that influence content decisions or chill free speech.”
The Broader Impact on the Entertainment Industry
The merger is perceived as a significant step toward further consolidation in the entertainment industry. Fonda expressed concern that such moves threaten not only the creative sector but also the fundamental rights protected by the First Amendment.
- Fonda highlighted the potential risks to free expression and storytelling.
- She asserted that industry leaders should protect their rights instead of compromising them for financial gain.
Fonda’s remarks come amid increasing scrutiny of the entertainment sector’s alignment with governmental interests. She closed her statement by assuring that her committee is engaged and prepared to act against any attempts to undermine free speech in the industry.
