Director writes to lawmaker urging scrutiny of major media merger

A Hollywood heavyweight steps in

February 20, 2026 – Filmmaker James Cameron has taken a rare public stance against the proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. by Netflix, describing the potential deal as “disastrous” in a letter to Republican lawmaker Senator Mike Lee. Cameron argues that the merger — which would combine one of Hollywood’s oldest studios with the world’s largest streaming platform — could have deep and lasting consequences for the industry’s future.
Cameron makes his case.

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What Cameron’s letter says

In his correspondence, Cameron contends that Netflix’s success in acquiring Warner Bros.’ studio and streaming assets would risk job losses, reduce creative diversity, and disrupt the traditional theatrical ecosystem that has defined cinema for decades. The director suggests that the deal could reshape how films are made, distributed, and consumed — with limited benefits for audiences or creative professionals.
Concerns over consolidation.

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Industry context and antitrust debate

The merger has already attracted significant scrutiny from lawmakers, regulators, and industry groups. The U.S. Department of Justice is examining how the sale might affect movie theater releases and competition, while cinema owners and unions have voiced concerns about market concentration and reduced theatrical windows. Paramount’s rival bid for Warner Bros. has also added complexity to the industry’s response, with some executives backing alternatives to the Netflix offer.
Antitrust issues in focus.

Image Credit: Netflix/Getty/Warner Bros.

A battle over Hollywood’s future

Cameron’s intervention highlights broader unease within Hollywood about the changing landscape of media ownership. Critics argue that a Netflix-controlled Warner Bros. could limit production diversity and centralize creative power within a single corporate giant, while supporters of the deal claim it may bring wider access to content and reaffirm theatrical plans with exclusive windows.
Industry future debated.

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Final thoughts

As regulators and shareholders weigh the merger’s merits, voices like Cameron’s underscore the stakes involved — not just for business interests, but for the cultural and economic fabric of an industry at a pivotal moment.

FAQs

Q1: What deal is James Cameron opposing?
He’s warning against Netflix’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros.’ studio and streaming operations.

Q2: Why does he call it “disastrous”?
Cameron argues the merger could harm theatrical cinema and reduce creative diversity.

Q3: Who did he address his concerns to?
He sent the letter to U.S. Senator Mike Lee.

Q4: Is the acquisition being legally reviewed?
Yes — the U.S. Department of Justice is probing potential impacts on theaters and competition.

Q5: Are there rival bids?
Paramount’s bid for Warner Bros. is challenging the Netflix offer and influencing the industry response.