Mark Ruffalo & Others’ Criticism of WBD Merger Gets Response From Paramount

A wave of criticism from Hollywood figures, including Mark Ruffalo, over the proposed deal involving Warner Bros. Discovery has prompted a response from Paramount Global. The studio has addressed the concerns raised in a widely circulated open letter, clarifying its position on the deal.

Paramount responds to Hollywood’s open letter criticizing WBD merger

Paramount Global has addressed growing criticism from the film and television community regarding its proposed merger involving Warner Bros. Discovery. The company defended the deal, stating that it is intended to expand creative opportunities across the industry. Paramount’s response follows the circulation of an open letter signed by more than 1,000 film and TV professionals who raised objections to the transaction.

In its statement, Paramount argued, “This transaction uniquely brings together complementary strengths to create a company that can greenlight more projects, back bold ideas, support talent across multiple stages of their careers.” The company also outlined specific commitments related to the proposed merger. 

This includes increasing production to at least 30 feature films annually with full theatrical releases, continuing to license content across platforms, and maintaining established brands under independent creative leadership. It further emphasized that the plan is to ensure “creators have more avenues for their work, not fewer.”

The response comes after more than 1,000 industry figures signed an open letter expressing concern about the merger. The letter warned that the deal could prioritize the interests of a limited number of stakeholders over the broader creative community. It stated, “We are deeply concerned by indications of support for this merger that prioritize the interests of a small group of powerful stakeholders over the broader public good.”

Among those who signed the letter were Mark Ruffalo, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Noah Wyle, David Fincher, and Denis Villeneuve, Joaquin Phoenix, Ben Stiller, and Kristen Stewart. The letter was organized by several advocacy organizations, including the Writers Guild of America, Democracy Defenders Fund, Future Film Coalition, and the Committee for the First Amendment.

Source: Comingsoon.net