Paramount Wants November Antitrust Trial as States Seek April 2027

Key Points:

• Paramount Skydance has requested its antitrust trial over the $111 billion merger with Warner Bros. be scheduled for November, citing financial penalties of $7 million per day starting Sept. 30 until deal completion and the need to reduce industry uncertainty.
• A coalition of 12 states, including California and New York, along with the Writers Guild of America (WGA), have asked for the trial to be set in April 2027, arguing that more time is needed for document discovery and depositions to build their case.
• The states and WGA contend the merger would reduce competition in cable and theatrical markets and harm writers, while Paramount claims the deal will enhance competition against streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon Prime.
• Judge Araceli Martinez-Olguin previously issued a temporary restraining order blocking the deal for 28 days, and Paramount agreed to pause the merger until trial, acknowledging an injunction was likely.
• The trial, to be held in federal court in Oakland, will hinge on expert economic testimony, with Paramount accusing the states of using delay tactics and emphasizing that a November trial date allows sufficient time for discovery and preparation.