David Ellison Champions Warner Bros Bid on European Lobbying Tour

Rowan Ashford

ago 2 hours

David Ellison is actively lobbying European leaders to gain support for his $108.4 billion takeover bid for Warner Bros. Discovery. This bid is a direct challenge to Netflix’s competing offer, raising significant regulatory scrutiny in both Europe and the United States.

European Lobbying Tour

Ellison’s efforts include meetings with various political and entertainment figures across France, Germany, and the U.K. His delegation recently visited Paris, where they engaged with key officials and industry leaders.

Key Meetings in Paris

French President Emmanuel Macron
Culture Minister Rachida Dati
Gaetan Bruel, President of the National Film Board (CNC)
Sidonie Dumas, CEO of Gaumont
Richard Patry, Head of the French Exhibition Association
Victor Hadida, Head of Metropolitan Filmexport

These discussions emphasized Ellison’s commitment to preserving the theatrical experience in the film industry. His visit to France was part of a broader strategy to gather support against Netflix’s bid.

Regulatory Climate

Meanwhile, a key legal challenge arose when a Delaware Chancery Court judge denied Paramount Skydance’s request to accelerate a lawsuit against Warner Bros. Discovery. This lawsuit aims to compel Warner Bros. to reveal financial details of its $83 billion deal with Netflix. The ruling allows Ellison’s $30-per-share bid to proceed without expedited legal processes.

Concerns Over Theatrical Releases

Ellison’s meetings also focused on the implications of Netflix’s plans for Warner Bros. movies. Recently, Netflix proposed a 17-day theatrical release window, which many industry insiders believe will not be feasible due to existing French regulations that grant cinemas a four-month exclusive period for new releases. Additionally, Netflix must wait 15 months to access films after their theatrical debut.

Industry Reactions

Ellison’s approach is seen as supportive of the traditional theatrical model.
Insiders note a strong opposition among industry figures towards a Netflix-led acquisition.
Concerns persist regarding the future of Warner Bros. under rival ownership.

Industry professionals in France expressed admiration for Ellison’s determination and strategy. His focus on maintaining both Paramount and Warner while respecting local media chronology rules has resonated positively among industry stakeholders.

Outlook for Warner Bros.

The potential acquisition of Warner Bros. is drawing significant attention from exhibitors, especially given the declining attendance in cinemas. The outcome of these lobbying efforts and regulatory considerations remains a critical subject within the film industry.