Netflix calls DOJ probe "routine" while defending Warner Bros. takeover

Netflix calls DOJ review “routine” as it defends Warner Bros. takeover

Netflix is defending its proposed purchase of Warner Bros. Discovery’s studios and HBO Max as the U.S. Department of Justice opens a probe and issues a civil subpoena to examine potential anticompetitive conduct. Clete Willems, Netflix’s chief global affairs officer, tells Fox Business that the inquiry is “ordinary course of business” and that the company is cooperating with regulators and engaging policymakers to explain the deal’s benefits for the U.S. economy and consumers.

The company says the transaction, reported by The Wall Street Journal as about $82.7 billion and structured as a cash-and-stock deal valued at $27.75 per Warner Bros. Discovery share, will create jobs and expand consumer choice. Willems highlights that Netflix has participated in a Senate hearing on the matter and stresses the firm’s willingness to meet with officials. He says Netflix is “tripling jobs” connected to the assets it plans to acquire and frames that as a contrast with rival bidder Paramount’s past workforce reductions.

Competition questions center on whether consolidation of major studios and a large streaming service could lessen rivalry in film and television distribution or limit options for advertisers and viewers. Warner Bros. unanimously rejects Paramount’s all-cash rival bid and remains committed to Netflix’s offer, but the DOJ is probing both potential acquisitions to assess market impact. Public figures, including Jane Fonda and former President Donald Trump, weigh in publicly; Trump suggests any sale should consider including CNN, adding a political dimension to regulators’ review.

Partnership update: AB InBev tie-up

Separately, Netflix announces a commercial partnership with AB InBev, underscoring its broader marketing and distribution efforts as it expands content and audience reach. The tie-up signals Netflix’s continued push into brand partnerships even as it navigates regulatory scrutiny over the Warner Bros. deal.

Regulatory engagement and outlook

Willems reiterates confidence that regulators will see consumer and job benefits and says Netflix is eager to explain the transaction’s advantages during the review. The company frames the DOJ inquiry as a standard part of large mergers and says it will work through the process while continuing to run and grow its streaming business.