The way you watch TV is about to change — again

Tuesday, 3 March 2026 14:36

The merger of two Hollywood giants will mean big changes to viewing habits globally.

The apps on your TV are likely about to change - again.

As part of the $US111 billion ($156 billion) merger of Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery announced at the weekend, the newly-combined company has revealed its plan for streaming services.

In a conference call on Monday (today AEST), chief executive David Ellison revealed the Paramount+ and HBO Max apps would become one platform.

"We will combine the streaming portfolios of the two companies into one stronger platform over the coming years," Ellison said.

"Across the two platforms, there are over 200 million DTC (direct-to-consumer) subscribers today in more than 100 countries and territories worldwide."

In their end of year reports, Paramount said it had 78.9 million direct-to-consumer subscribers, while Warner Bros. Discovery reported 131.6 million.

Netflix, which lost out in the bidding war for Warner Bros, reported having 325 million subscribers globally at the end of last year.

Ellison did not suggest a name for the new combined streamer, but it will almost certainly result in another rebrand for WBD's streamer, which just this past summer rebranded back to HBO Max after spending two years as simply Max.

As part of the merger, Paramount will also acquire CNN, which is currently owned by WBD.

During Monday's call, Ellison told analysts that Paramount has "no divestitures planned at this time" regarding cable — meaning the company does not plan to sell cable assets.

The newly merged streaming giant will boast some of the most coveted franchises in television history, ranging from The Sopranos and Game of Thrones to recent hits such as Yellowstone.

In a previous statement announcing the merger, Ellison has also pledged to keep the 45-day theatrical window for new films, and he promised the merged studios would put out 30 films a year.

- Reported with CNN

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