A U.S. judge granted a temporary restraining order to allow states to argue the deal harms competition in film and cable markets.
A U.S. District Judge ordered a 14-day halt to Paramount Skydance Corporation’s $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, delaying the planned July 22 closing. The decision follows arguments from a 12-state coalition claiming the merger would reduce competition in film and television markets.
The judge cited “serious questions” about the deal’s merits and noted Paramount conceded no harm from waiting until September. A hearing is set for August 3 to consider extending the block indefinitely. Both companies will remain separate during the review.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta called the ruling a “critical first win” to prevent the merger, warning of potential market consolidation risks.