A judge has paused the merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. for at least 14 days

A legal hold has been placed on the planned merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) for a minimum of two weeks due to concerns over potential breaches of US antitrust regulations.

Last October, WBD initiated talks of a potential sale. As part of this process, Netflix proposed a purchase of WBD for $82.7 billion in December, aiming to acquire its film, streaming, and gaming sectors. Soon afterwards, Paramount made its move with an initial offer valued at $108.4 billion. Despite extensive discussions and facing a lawsuit from Paramount, Netflix decided to retract its offer on February 26, 2026.

According to a Variety report, a coalition of states argued that the proposed merger could decrease the number of films and television programs available while increasing their cost.

Attorney General Rob Bonta of California stated, "My office and attorneys general nationwide have secured an emergency order blocking the unlawful merger of Warner Bros. and Paramount." He highlighted the ruling as a significant victory to prevent such a powerful merger from proceeding. He warned about the negative impacts on markets when dominated by few powerful entities, expressing the need to maintain a competitive and vibrant film and television industry for both creators and consumers.

Judge Araceli Martinez-Olguin, after considering arguments from all sides last week, issued a temporary restraining order lasting 14 days, which could potentially extend to 28 days. The court's interim injunction was aimed at allowing Paramount's deal closure, originally scheduled for July 22, to be postponed. The judge emphasized the presence of significant questions warranting preliminary injunctive measures. She noted that the public's strong interest in enforcing antitrust laws made it necessary to grant the requested temporary relief.

For a detailed account of the events leading to the WBD acquisition, you can read the complete timeline here.