Netflix may have won the Warner Bros. Discovery bidding war and entered exclusive talks, but according to insiders, the deal is far from secure. The buzz inside Hollywood suggests that powerful creatives are preparing to push back hard, and the Trump administration may emerge as an unexpected force that could potentially shut the entire deal down.
Hollywood Creatives Reportedly Rallying Against Netflix Deal
Insiders describe a “wild scenario” unfolding among industry veterans who are staunchly opposed to Netflix taking over Warner Bros. Discovery. The sentiment is widespread, fueled by fears that Netflix could eliminate theatrical value, downsize the studio, and shrink beloved brands. This apprehension has led to a growing movement among Hollywood figures who might even consider aligning with the Trump administration to block the merger. A-list filmmakers have reportedly urged Congress to oppose Netflix’s acquisition, while the Director’s Guild, led by Christopher Nolan, has already voiced concerns.
One insider noted, “This is just the beginning. No one in Hollywood wants it. And Trump may be a hero for stopping the merger.” The internal mood is charged with anxiety and volatility, as many are ready for a fight to protect the future of the industry.
Zack Snyder Still Holds an Edge
In the midst of this turmoil, Zack Snyder appears to be in a unique position. Insiders point to Joe Manganiello’s social media activity as evidence that Snyder’s camp sees potential opportunities with Netflix. The streaming giant is in dire need of content and is not bound by traditional theatrical windows, which could allow Snyder to finish his story or even fund ambitious projects like a Dark Knight Returns adaptation.
Moreover, insiders speculate about a more radical scenario: if DC opens up character licensing outside the studio system, Netflix could support a Russo Brothers/Zack Snyder crossover featuring DC and Marvel characters—an idea that traditional studios would likely dismiss.
Fear Netflix Will Downsize DC Comics and Restructure the Studios
Within DC, there is palpable concern about what Netflix ownership could mean for the future of the brand. Insiders suggest that Netflix has little interest in maintaining a publishing division, which could lead to a significant downsizing of DC Comics or a shift toward merely managing intellectual property. The studio might pivot to producing one-off films and Netflix-style franchises, potentially allowing other studios to license DC characters if Netflix adopts an open model.
This scenario creates chaos but also opens doors for filmmakers like Snyder, who could thrive in a more flexible environment.
Only De Luca and Abdy Likely Survive a Netflix Takeover
Insiders reveal that Netflix operates with a lean structure, lacking traditional heads of divisions. Instead, decisions are made by a central authority, with Dan Lin and his team calling the shots. Should the merger proceed, Netflix would likely want Mike De Luca and Pam Abdy at the helm of WB Films, consolidating all film and TV operations under one umbrella.
This consolidation could mean a diminished power center for DC, limiting the authority of figures like James Gunn and Peter Safran. One insider bluntly stated, “This would force Gunn and Safran out.”
Gunn May Use Netflix as His Exit
In a twist of fate, some insiders speculate that James Gunn might see the Netflix deal as an opportunity to exit. One source suggested, “Gunn has an opportunity to bail with the excuse that Netflix is too limiting. He pushed everything way too fast, but he may ride out his last year and bail with the Netflix excuse.”
Nobody Actually Knows What Happens Next
Amidst all this uncertainty, insiders emphasize that Warner Bros. Discovery employees and creatives find themselves in uncharted waters. “Nobody in the building right now actually knows what’s going to happen, including Gunn,” one insider remarked. The industry is holding its breath, waiting to see if regulators will intervene, if Trump will take action, and whether Hollywood’s brewing backlash can slow or derail Netflix’s ambitious plans.
At this moment, the only certainty is uncertainty, and a looming industry fight appears inevitable. As the stakes rise, all eyes are on the unfolding drama that could reshape the future of Hollywood.
