Paramount Skydance Corporation Criticizes State Attorneys General Merger Challenge

Paramount Skydance Corporation is strongly challenging the lawsuit filed by state attorneys general against its proposed merger, asserting that the complaint distorts settled antitrust law and misrepresents competition in the entertainment industry. The company argues that this action deviates from evidence-based antitrust enforcement.

Paramount highlights that competition authorities in 24 jurisdictions worldwide, including Australia, Canada, and the European Union, have already reviewed and cleared the transaction. These global regulators have found no significant anticompetitive effects. The company contends that the merger will create a stronger competitor against dominant streaming and technology platforms that have impacted the market for theatrical exhibition and entertainment industry jobs.

The company believes the merger will enable increased investments in premium content, theatrical releases, and creative talent. Paramount states that any delay in closing the transaction benefits large tech companies and harms consumers and entertainment workers. The combined entity is expected to invest more aggressively in content and theatrical distribution, adhering to a minimum 45-day exclusive window for theatrical releases.

Paramount intends to vigorously defend the transaction, arguing that the attorneys general's challenge is inconsistent with sound competition policy and the competitive realities of the media marketplace. They maintain that blocking the deal would shield dominant streaming platforms from needed competition and prevent benefits for consumers, creators, and workers.