Latest Entertainment News
DOJ Investigates Netflix's Anticompetitive Practices in Warner Bros. Merger Review
The U.S. Justice Department is scrutinizing Netflix's proposed $72 billion takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery, focusing on whether it wields undue leverage over independent filmmakers and creators in programming negotiations. The probe cites potential violations of the Clayton and Sherman Acts, signaling a deeper review beyond standard merger checks.
This comes as Netflix spends $20B annually on content, including hits from third-party studios.
Warner Bros. Granted Extension to Consider Paramount's Rival Bid Against Netflix
Warner Bros. Discovery received a waiver from Netflix to resume talks with Paramount Skydance until February 23 for a 'best and final' offer in the ongoing bidding war. Paramount's $77.9B hostile bid claims no major regulatory hurdles after DOJ review, positioning it as a strong alternative.
Netflix remains confident, issuing the waiver to reduce market uncertainty.
Trump Warns Netflix Merger Could Create Market Monopoly, Urges Scrutiny
President Trump expressed concerns that the Netflix-Warner Bros. deal, valued at up to $83B, could give Netflix excessive market share in streaming and production. He noted watching the market percentage closely, amid political opposition.
Separately, Trump urged Netflix to fire Susan Rice amid the acquisition battle.
Stars Gear Up for BAFTA Awards with 'One Battle' and 'Sinners' Leading Nominations
Emma Stone, Cillian Murphy, Glenn Close, and Ethan Hawke are set to attend the BAFTA Film Awards at London's Royal Festival Hall, hosted by Alan Cumming. Films 'One Battle' and 'Sinners' lead the race, with noms for Teyana Taylor, Benicio del Toro, and Sean Penn in supporting roles.
Donna Langley receives the BAFTA Fellowship honor.
Netflix Faces Political and Legal Backlash Over Warner Bros. Acquisition
The $83B Netflix-Warner Bros. deal draws fire for potentially stacking production and streaming under one entity, alarming Hollywood and regulators. Sen. Chuck Grassley urged antitrust scrutiny to protect competition and consumers.
Investor splits on Warner's side fuel delays in the bidding process.
Celebrity Birthdays: Drew Barrymore Turns 51, James Blunt 52 on February 22
Actress Drew Barrymore celebrates her 51st birthday, alongside musician James Blunt at 52 and comedian Iliza Shlesinger. Other stars include Kyle MacLachlan (67), Lea Salonga (55), and Thomas Jane (57).
Fans mark the day with facts like MacLachlan's winery ownership.
Mark Ruffalo Questions James Cameron's Silence on Netflix-Paramount Merger Fight
Actor Mark Ruffalo publicly questioned James Cameron's lack of comment on the Netflix vs. Paramount Skydance bids for Warner Bros., amid antitrust concerns. The feud highlights celebrity involvement in the high-stakes Hollywood consolidation battle.
Warner Bros. faces two major takeover offers raising monopoly fears.
Netflix Co-CEO Confident in Warner Bid Despite Rival Offers and Delays
Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos stated confidence in their all-cash Warner Bros. offer, granting a waiver for rival talks to ensure shareholder certainty. The deal, initially announced in December 2025, shifted to cash in January 2026.
Senate hearings in February probed monopoly risks.
BAFTA Nominates AP Documentary on Ukraine War '2000 Meters to Andriivka'
The Associated Press co-produced documentary '2000 Meters to Andriivka' earned a BAFTA best documentary nomination for its Ukraine war coverage. The film by Mstyslav Chernov with Frontline PBS highlights harrowing frontline reporting.
The ceremony airs on BBC and E!.
Kyle MacLachlan, Rachel Dratch Among Stars Born February 22
Actor Kyle MacLachlan turns 67, famed for Twin Peaks and David Lynch films, plus owning a winery. Comedian Rachel Dratch hits 60, known for SNL and improv roots in cello playing.
Lea Salonga, 55, voice of Disney princesses, celebrates as a tech gamer.
Paramount Skydance's $108B Bid Challenges Netflix in Warner Bros. Race
Rival bidder Paramount Skydance offers nearly $108B for Warner Bros. Discovery, clearing key antitrust periods unlike Netflix's deal under DOJ probe. The bid competes in one of Hollywood's biggest acquisition battles for franchises and networks.
Warner plans to spin off linear networks as Discovery Global.