Warner Bros. Discovery CEO explores merger options with Paramount Global

Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav is reportedly not actively pursuing a deal with Paramount Global, but exploratory conversations have taken place. While a merger between the two studios is not currently imminent, the possibility of a partnership or combination in the future remains open. Zaslav's recent meeting with Paramount CEO Bob Bakish primarily focused on the potential sale of Shari Redstone's stake in Paramount's parent company. Debt and declining audience share are among the concerns for Warner Bros. Discovery, but the integration of Paramount's movie studio and library of films with Warner Bros. Discovery's streaming service Max could be attractive. Paramount's deteriorating business conditions have led to its interest in selling, but uncertainties about its programming future make potential buyers cautious.