Protest Against Paramount Skydance-Warner Bros. Merger in Los Angeles

On Saturday, a gathering took place in Los Angeles to protest Paramount Skydance’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. This “anti-merger” event saw participation from writers, actors, staff, and small business owners, along with officials from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and the Writers Guild of America West.

The attendees voiced their concerns alongside others already opposing the merger.

Stand-up comedian Adam Conover spoke at the event, expressing that ongoing media consolidation represents an existential threat to the cultural landscape of America. “Death is coming soon. That’s why I’m so passionate about this issue,” he said.

This event marked the first stop on the “Main Street vs. Merger” tour, designed to unite various advocacy groups and politicians against the proposed $110 billion merger. Organized by advocacy groups and industry figures, the gathering attracted around 100 participants at Lumiere Music Hall in Los Angeles.

Prominent speakers included Anna Gomez, the only Democrat on the FCC, former FTC Chairman Alvaro Bedoya, and WGA West Chairman Michelle Mulroney. “I know it’s tiring, I’m exhausted,” Gomez admitted, highlighting the everyday challenges related to current administration policies impacting the First Amendment. Yet, she emphasized the importance of staying inspired and vocal.

Despite the outcry, U.S. antitrust regulators seem ready to approve the merger. Paramount Skydance has reassured that the collaboration will not negatively affect other studios or creative talents, with CEO David Ellison committed to releasing at least 30 films annually across both platforms.

However, reports suggest that several U.S. states, including California and New York, are preparing legal action to block the deal.