Renewed Criticisms After Approval
Mark Ruffalo returned to social media to condemn the merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery, authorized on Wednesday and with closing expected for next week. In a post on Threads, the actor described the deal as harmful to artistic creation, freedom of expression, and the job market.
Excerpt from the Statement
“This merger will stifle creativity, weaken freedom of expression, and eliminate jobs. It’s a bad deal for the country and should never have been approved,” wrote Ruffalo. He emphasized that popular mobilization against the deal will not disappear and promised to continue the fight.
The actor also broadened the focus: according to him, the case is not limited to a single operation, but represents resistance against billionaires who prioritize their own interests over the population.
Previous Position and Legal Action
Ruffalo had already spoken out at the beginning of the month, encouraging California Attorney General Rob Bonta and 11 other state attorneys general not to accept a judicial agreement with Paramount Skydance. The goal was to prevent David Ellison from advancing in the acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery.
Context of the Dispute
- The transaction involves the union of two major Hollywood studios.
- State authorities question possible impacts on competition and content diversity.
- Ruffalo argues that the popular movement should continue even after regulatory approval.