The International Brotherhood of Teamsters is voicing strong opposition to the proposed merger between Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery, citing potential job losses and negative impacts on workers. The union has submitted a report to the U.S. Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division, urging intervention to prevent the merger from proceeding.
Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien expressed serious concerns about the merger's threat to the livelihoods of workers who have contributed to the success of these studios. The union highlighted that previous mergers, including Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox in 2019, have historically resulted in job cuts and diminished production capacity.
Motion Picture Teamsters, a division focused on Hollywood operations, are anticipated to be particularly affected by this consolidation. The union demands that Paramount and Warner Bros. provide enforceable commitments to uphold domestic production and labor standards. If such assurances are not made, the Teamsters expect the DOJ to block the merger altogether.
If the merger proceeds, Paramount Skydance has pledged to release 30 theatrical films each year, utilizing the resources and slates of both studios. However, the viability of this plan hinges on receiving regulatory approval.