The US Department of Justice (DOJ) approved Paramount Skydance's acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery on June 16, 2026. A DOJ press release stated that an eight-month investigation by the Antitrust Division concluded that the $111 billion deal would not harm competition or consumers. However, The Wall Street Journal reported that DOJ career lawyers involved in the investigation were inclined to recommend a lawsuit against the merger, citing potential anticompetitive concerns. The decision to approve the deal was made by senior DOJ officials before these staff members could voice their objections. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) commented on the situation, suggesting that the approval may have been influenced by political considerations.
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DOJ Approves Paramount Acquisition of Warner Bros. Despite Staff Concerns
The US Department of Justice approved the acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery by Paramount Skydance, stating it would not harm competition. However, reports indicate that DOJ career lawyers were surprised by the decision, as they had concerns about the merger's anticompetitive implications.
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US approval of Paramount/Warner Bros. deal surprised DOJ lawyers, report says
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DOJ Approves Paramount Acquisition of Warner Bros. Despite Staff Concerns