Netflix has started notifying subscribers by email that it is in the final stages of acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery’s film, television and streaming businesses in a deal worth USD 72 billion. The message confirms that Netflix has reached a definitive agreement to purchase Warner Bros.’ major entertainment assets, including its historic movie and TV studios, HBO, HBO Max and DC Entertainment. This means iconic franchises such as Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, Friends, The Big Bang Theory, Casablanca and the DC Universe would eventually sit alongside Netflix originals like Stranger Things, Squid Game and Wednesday on a single platform.
However, Netflix stressed that nothing will change immediately. Both streaming services will continue to operate separately for now, as the acquisition still requires regulatory and shareholder approvals before it can be completed. Netflix told users it will share more updates once the formalities are finished.
The deal is expected to close after the planned spinoff of Discovery Global, projected for the third quarter of 2026. Netflix has encouraged subscribers to contact its Help Centre with any questions about the upcoming changes.
Netflix Co-CEO Greg Peters has said the purchase will accelerate the company’s long-term growth, while Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav described the merger as the unification of “two of the greatest storytelling companies in the world.” Netflix has also reassured fans of theatrical cinema that Warner Bros.’ traditional movie release model will be maintained even as more titles arrive on the streaming platform.
Although industry unions have voiced concerns about consolidation, subscribers are anticipating one of the largest combined entertainment libraries in history once the deal is finalised.
