‘HBO, DC, Cartoon Network’: 10 Companies That Netflix Will Now Own After The Warner Bros Buyout

Following Netflix’s agreement to acquire Warner Bros Discovery’s TV and film studios and streaming division in a deal valued at roughly $72 billion, the streaming giant will take control of some of the most influential brands in global entertainment. Based on the assets included in the sale, here are 10 major companies and brands Netflix will now own.

1. HBO

The deal includes Warner Bros Discovery's streaming and premium-TV business, giving Netflix full ownership of HBO, one of the strongest content brands in the world, known for Game of Thrones, Succession, The Last of Us and more.

2. HBO Max / Max

Netflix will also acquire the HBO Max (rebranded as Max) streaming service, a direct competitor. This dramatically increases Netflix’s control over prestige television and reshapes the streaming landscape.

3. Warner Bros Television

The acquisition includes Warner Bros’ television production unit, one of the industry’s largest suppliers of scripted and unscripted programming, producing shows for networks globally.

4. Warner Bros Pictures

Netflix gains control of Warner Bros Pictures, the centerpiece film studio behind franchises such as Harry Potter, DC Films, Mad Max and Fantastic Beasts.

5. DC Entertainment / DC Studios

The DC superhero universe featuring Batman, Wonder Woman, Superman, Joker and more, falls under Netflix’s ownership as part of the studios division.

6. New Line Cinema

The iconic studio behind The Lord of the Rings, The Conjuring and IT will become part of Netflix’s content empire through the Warner Bros acquisition.

7. Cartoon Network Studios

The animation division producing global hits like Ben 10, Adventure Time and The Powerpuff Girls will be owned by Netflix, expanding its youth and animation catalogue.

8. Adult Swim

Known for Rick and Morty, Aqua Teen Hunger Force and cult animation, Adult Swim also moves under Netflix as part of the studios and TV assets it is buying.

9. Turner Classic Movies (TCM)

TCM’s extensive classic-films library and broadcast brand will fall under Netflix's control, giving it unmatched catalogue depth.

10. Vox Media Partnership Assets

Warner Bros Discovery maintains multiple joint ventures, including content partnerships with Vox Media (such as digital news/documentary collaborations). These partnership rights transfer to Netflix as part of the studio and streaming business purchase.

The article was originally published by Wionews

Netflix Wins the Warner Bros. Discovery Bidding War, Enters Exclusive Deal Talks

Warner Bros. Discovery is moving forward with exclusive deal talks with Netflix, TheWrap has learned.

WBD has selected Netflix after the streaming giant offered $30 a share for the studio and streaming assets, according to two people familiar with the deal talks. The deal also includes a $5 billion break-up fee to match the terms that Paramount added with its bid.

While its unclear what the makeup of the new bid looks like, the prior bid was a mix of mostly cash and stock.

Netflix securing a win over rival suitors Paramount and Comcast represents a stunning turnaround from just two months ago, when co-CEO Greg Peters shaded big media mergers as not having an “amazing track record,” and Paramount buying WBD seemed like a foregone conclusion. Fast forward to today, and Netflix has won a furious M&A bake-off after three rounds of bids.

Representatives for Netflix and WBD weren’t immediately available for comment.

These exclusive talks clear the road for Netflix to acquire the Warner Bros. studios, HBO Max and a treasure trove of IP assets like “Harry Potter” and the DC Universe. Netflix, which once aspired to be like HBO when first embarking on original content, is on a course to become its next owner. Obtaining such assets could dramatically reshape the entertainment landscape and give Netflix even more power over Hollywood — concerns the streamer will have to assuage.

Regulatory hurdles

The willingness to include the unusually large breakup fee was likely critical with questions arising on how Netflix will get a deal with Warner Bros. through regulatory approval. It would face stiff antitrust scrutiny and opposition from the U.S. Department of Justice, New York Post’s Charles Gasparino reported on Tuesday.

A representative for the Department Justice declined to comment on the report.

In a Nov. 13 letter to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, Federal Trade Commission Chairman Andrew Ferguson and Department of Justice antitrust division assistant attorney general Gail Slater, Republican Rep. Darrell Issa warned that a Netflix bid would raise antitrust concerns that could harm consumers and Hollywood alike. He noted that consolidation between the two companies would “diminish incentives to produce new content and major theatrical releases,” which could “undermine opportunities for the full range of industry professionals both in front of and behind the camera.”

California Attorney General Robert Bonta has previously voiced his opposition to any deals involving WBD. “Further consolidation in markets that are central to American economic life — whether in the financial, airline, grocery or broadcasting and entertainment markets — does not serve the American economy, consumers or competition well,” his office told TheWrap last month in response to Paramount’s initial offer.

“We are committed to protecting consumers and California’s economy from consolidation we find unlawful,” the spokesperson added.

The process of completing the deal could distract the company from executing its core business. There’s also the X factor of Netflix jumping into the deep end of the theatrical business, a part of the entertainment world it has kept its distance from. Netflix shares fell 5% on Wednesday when investors realized the prospect of a deal happening was very real.

Would Paramount Be A Good Suitor For Warner Bros. Discovery Global?

Paramount is planning to several linear channels across the world by the end of 2025. This includes Nickelodeon's channels in New Zealand and Brazil, BET in France and MTV's music channels across Europe.

Amidst this, Paramount is currently in pursuit of Warner Bros. Discovery which distributes brands like Discovery Channel, HGTV, Cartoon Network and CNN. Prior to this bid, Warner Bros. Discovery was exploring potential split with most of their cable networks forming part of Discovery Global.

If we analyze most of the channels Paramount is looking to shutter across the world such as BET in France and Nickelodeon in Brazil. You would discover that most of the hits target regional or localised brands which does lead us to wonder what is to become of Discovery Global.

Discovery Global offers a lot of cable networks compared to Paramount the ones which have seen success internationally include Cartoonito, Boing and DMAX. These would expand to include regional networks like Discovery Family, Real Time and TNT.

In the event where Paramount bid is probably deemed successful whose to guarantee that these networks won't walk out the door. Paramount is pivoting toward streaming and wanting to offer content with global appeal.

If you look at the state of Paramount's cable networks their operations would be reduced to just MTV, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, Nick Jr. and Nicktoons by next year. As BET, MTV Base and various other channels get their affairs in order and bid farewell.

There's a chance Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon could be placed under the same umbrella although Paramount intends to keep certain aspects of Warner Bros. Discovery. Reductions is the one thing that usually comes out of a merger or acquisition.

Paramount intends to merge HBO Max with Paramount+ and that wouldn't necessarily equal more content. HBO Max in such a transaction could become what Hulu is on Disney+ globally as opposed to a juggernaut like Netflix.

Paramount very much like Warner can see the writing on the wall when it comes to dominance and the reality is that not everyone can be a shark under water. Some companies to resort to partnerships or even mergers to become a bigger fish in the ocean.

Usually in merger and acquisitions, the acquiring company puts their needs above all else. In the first round, it would be Nickelodeon, Nicktoons, Nick Jr., from Paramount going up against Cartoon Network and Cartoonito from Warner Bros. Discovery.

Warner Bros. Discovery had been reliant on third party content for these cable networks and Paramount may not like that strategy. Aside from that, Cartoon Network makes 15%-20% of its revenue from 2014 which has affected the channel's overall performance.

Teen Titans GO! is currently the only primetime show on the network while other productions like Tiny Toons Looniversity and We Baby Bears wrap productions. Then there's Batwheels on Cartoonito which has been on limbo following its third season renewal.

Paramount in its attempts at scaling back on costs could opt to merge Cartoon Network's operations with that of Nickelodeon or Nicktoons while Cartoonito is phased out in favour of Nick Jr.

The second round would comprise of Travel Channel, Discovery Family, Real Time and TNT.

As seen already, Paramount is scaling back on its international operations with the closures of CBS Reality, CBS Justice, MTV Base and BET. Whose to say that the same fate won't await these brands.

Discovery Channel and TLC have more reruns and part of their primetime shows are likely reruns from HGTV and Food Network. It kind of makes Discovery Family and Real Time obsolete if the company doesn't have much content for their core brands.

Travel Channel is very similar to BET and CBS Reality when it comes to scale with the channel that had also seen a slow decline in carriage. Under Paramount, this endeavours would be accelerated even further.

MultiChoice Is Ready To Launch More Channels Amidst It's Offset With Warner Bros. Discovery

MultiChoice has sent notice to various informing them that Warner Bros. Discovery's slate of channels would be exiting DStv by the of December. This comes after Paramount announced plans to shutter CBS Justice, CBS Reality, BET and MTV Base on the platform. 

Canal+, MultiChoice's new owners appears to have a different strategy when negotiating carriage deals. Previous carriage deals were often extended quietly and it lead to fee hikes it appears that Canal+ wants to minimise costs amidst MultiChoice's financial woes.

One could say MultiChoice's reasoning for issuing a termination notice through email is their way of pressuring Warner Bros. Discovery. They're amidst a potential buyout or split by Netflix, Comcast and Paramount.

MultiChoice's previous owners wouldn't have done the runaround with Warner Bros. Discovery as opposed to Canal+. They are open to replacing these channels (or at least some of them) but the reality is there really is no alternatives.

For consumers hoping that MultiChoice would replace them with something that can go on par with TLC or Cartoon Network this may never be the case. Linear television had been in rapid decline in the US and its led some companies to scale back on original content.

With Canal+ also having pay-tv operations held in Europe, France and Asia it's likely replacement would be sought there.

Canal+ Distribution which serves as both production and distribution company offers diverse content and channels from markets in which it's pay-tv services reside. This can range from France24 in which eMedia Investments distribute in a separate agreement alongside FilmBox channels.

In the event these channels were to go dark, I'd imagine they'd look through that outlet for this "fresh content" they've promised to introduce to subscribers.

Canal+ Distribution's catalogue ranges from news through AfricaNews and France24, music through Trace Urban and Trace Gospel and cartoons with Duck TV and ZooMoo. Following its acquisition of MultiChoice, it's portfolio would also include M-Net and Mzansi Magic.

Is The Cat Really Out Of The Bag For MultiChoice And Warner Bros. Discovery??? As The Channels Remain On Canal+ Afrique In A Separate Agreement

MultiChoice has sent notice to various informing them that Warner Bros. Discovery's slate of channels would be exiting DStv by the of December. This comes after Paramount announced plans to shutter CBS Justice, CBS Reality, BET and MTV Base on the platform. 

Warner Bros. Discovery currently has the largest linear portfolio with MultiChoice being 12 channels as opposed to Disney and Paramount who offer 5 to 6 channels. These includes brands Discovery Channel, TLC, HGTV, Cartoon Network and CNN.

There's a strong possibility that Canal+ following its takeover of MultiChoice will likely to reduce the offering. As it understood, MultiChoice is bleeding subscribers or in general losing money and Canal+ is trying to put out these flames.

MultiChoice's previous owners were more likely to retain these 12 channels compared to the French broadcaster. When they mentioned potentially replacing these channels it could imply doing away with Bobby Flay and Fixer Home Fabulous.

MultiChoice's French African equivalent Canal+ Afrique distribute Warner Bros. Discovery's cable networks in a separate agreement. Large number of premium channels are excluded from their offering including TLC, HGTV and Food Network.

Through M7 Group, it's European equivalent offers HBO, Discovery Historia, Discovery Life, Cartoon Network and Cartoonito through Canal+ Polska. Channels to be excluded can also range from Discovery Channel and Investigation Discovery.

In the event that both parties come to an agreement it's likely that Discovery Channel, TLC, Cartoon Network and CNN will continue on the platform. But to save up on costs, Canal+ may look to remove channels which are deemed non viable or repetitive.

Check our previous story: this could as well range from HGTV, Food Network or Real Time. Another could as well be that Discovery Family, Food Network, HGTV and Travel Channel get the axe while Real Time is all that's left of the flock.

MultiChoice may notify consumers of channel terminations but this isn't their first rodeo as a similar situation occured with Lifetime, History and C+I before the company opted to remove only C+I. Even Bloomberg had its feed cut off before getting reinstated.

DStv Without Discovery Family And Possibly Real Time??? It Wouldn't Seem Far Fetched A Stretch

As some consumers have heard, MultiChoice might be removing 12 additional channels following the news of CBS Justice, CBS Reality, BET and MTV Base's purge from DStv. It should be noted that MultiChoice is still negotiating with Warner Bros. Discovery over these 12 so nothing is final.

My esteemed guess is that MultiChoice will likely look to reduce the number of channels targeting premium brands like HGTV and even redundant ones like Discovery Family. 

Due to the rise in streaming, various companies such as Disney and Paramount have been scaling back on their international operations. As mentioned, the upcoming axing of MTV Base and BET which would the likes of FOX and Disney XD.

Warner Bros. Discovery has the largest linear portfolio with MultiChoice compared to Disney which had only 6 with Paramount that will be reduced to just 5 channels. Amongst the offering are crown jewels Discovery Channel, TLC, CNN and Cartoon Network.

Over the years, some of these cable networks have seen a rise in reruns or in this case TLC which had its airtime split for shows on Food Network, HGTV and Investigation Discovery.

MultiChoice had already been distributing content from these channels through Real Time which had me wondering why Warner Bros. Discovery would diminish the value of TLC. Even Investigation Discovery and Discovery Channel had gone through a similar ordeal.

Food Network and HGTV are the only brands that haven't been affected.

A few years ago, Warner Bros. Discovery opted to discontinue distribution of Discovery Science and Discovery Turbo across Europe. Very similar to Discovery Family and Real Time no marketing was done for any new content from these brands.

It would only seem logical if plans were underway to do away with these channels especially amidst Warner Bros. Discovery's potential acquisition by either Comcast, Netflix and Paramount.

With the main networks struggling to scavenge new content it makes Discovery Family and Real Time the weakest links.

Canal+ following its acquisition of MultiChoice has been trying to put out the fire as the company has seen a loss in subscribers and a drop in revenue. This had led Canal+ to shed certain operational expenses at the company by 20%.

In this carriage deal MultiChoice and Warner Bros. Discovery are embroiled in there's a strong chance that both parties will settle this with lesser channels.

Discovery Family very much like TLC and Real Time have been airing older programming it's not only Discovery Channel's yesteryear stock but also My Cats From Hell. The same show would eventually resurface on Real Time making it a stronger candidate to get the axe.

Real Time could as well be repositioned to include shows from Discovery Channel as seen with Animal Planet, Food Network, HGTV and Investigation Discovery. Perhaps take up a higher position within DStv instead of 155 it sits alongside TLC on 136.

Amidst this whole dispute, Warner Bros. Discovery had unveiled several upcoming titles for Discovery Family that could as well migrate to Real Time in the event Discovery Family would be removed.

Comcast Looking To Spinoff And Merge It's NBCUniversal's Division With Warner Bros. Discovery

The future of Warner Bros. Discovery is hanging in the balance, with the entertainment company’s board of directors now weighing second round bids for the company from Comcast, Paramount and Netflix.

The offers were due Monday, and all three companies submitted their revised plans.

While the specific cash amounts were not immediately clear (also complicated by the fact that only Paramount is pursuing the whole company), the second round bids included some notable tweaks. Netflix, for example, is now a mostly cash bid, after initially leaning on its stock as a key part of the deal.

And Paramount is offering all-cash, having secured debt financing from the private equity giant Apollo, as well as unknown Middle East sovereign wealth funds. The nature of the debt financing means that Ellison and Redbird will retain total control of Paramount if they are successful in their bid.

Comcast, meanwhile, is said to have proposed a deal that would see it spin out NBCUniversal into WBD in what would likely be a stock-heavy transaction.

Barring any surprise late bidders or a call by the WBD board to continue with their split, one of the three media giants is likely to emerge as the buyer of assets that include the venerable Warner Bros. film and TV studios, HBO and HBO Max, and IP that includes DC Comics, Friends, and Harry Potter.

So what happens next? WBD’s board will need to weigh the new offers, and either request a third round of bids if they feel they can extract more compelling offers, or pick a winner and start working on a binding agreement.

To split or not to split: This is in many ways the fundamental question about the future of WBD. The company was planning to split itself in two: A streaming and studio business, and a linear TV business. Paramount wants the whole thing, while Comcast and Netflix want to stay away from linear. Does the company sell itself whole (likely to Paramount) or split itself, either in a sale or a continuation of its previous process?

Regulatory hell: The Trump administration has made it clear that David Ellison and his father Larry Ellison would have an easier regulatory path, fresh off their deal for Paramount. At the same time, anonymous administration sources have made it clear to friendly voices like Fox Business Network and the New York Post’s Charlie Gasparino that Netflix and Comcast would face scrutiny. How tough will the government be? And will it dissuade the WBD board from cutting a deal with anyone that doesn’t have the last name Ellison?

Film’s future: Netflix is not in the theatrical film business, really. NBCUniversal and Paramount are. But if the WBD studios are sold, what happens to its film studio, which has had a breakout year under the leadership of Michael De Luca and Pamela Abdy? Netflix has reportedly promised continues theatrical releases, but does that mean the same sort of wide release WB has done? Or a Netflix-ified version? Would NBCU or Paramount really just double their film output? Or is the future of WB more like 20th Century Fox, as a niche with a few releases under the larger umbrella?

Sports superpower: WBD may have lost its NBA rights, but its portfolio still includes prime MLB and NHL deals, one half of the March Madness college basketball tourney (Paramount has the rest) and other rights that include the French Open and college football. When added to the portfolios of Paramount or NBCU, it could make for a compelling sports proposition, a sports media giant that would rival only ESPN in scale. But with those rights set to travel with the linear TV business, their future remains uncertain.

What about Zas? WBD CEO David Zaslav has made no secret of his love of the game. He hosts star-studded dinners at his Beverly Hills mansion (once known as Woodland, the estate of mogul Robert Evans), he has sought out meetings and held court at his U.S. Open suite with A-listers and tycoons. Would he really hang up his power suit (or power vest?) that easily? Paramount has reportedly offered him a major role, so it stands to reason that others may make similar offers as further enticement for a deal.

Mystery bidder: We know that Paramount, Comcast and Netflix have submitted bids, but that doesn’t preclude a surprise bidder entering the fray. Perhaps, say, a private equity firm backed by Middle Eastern money? Or a Japanese entertainment conglomerate with an American partner? Don’t count out any surprises.

Channels That Are Likely Safe Or Canned Within MultiChoice's Channel Negotiation Agreement With Warner Bros. Discovery

MultiChoice is set to lose 4 channels by the end of December which include BET, MTV Base, CBS Reality and CBS Justice. There's a chance that more channels could join the list as it's embroiled in a carriage dispute with Warner Bros. Discovery.

Warner Bros. Discovery operates 12 channels on the DStv platform which is the most for any provider in contract with MultiChoice. This includes Cartoon Network, Cartoonito, TNT, CNN, Discovery Channel, TLC, Discovery Family, Real Time, HGTV, Travel Channel, Investigation Discovery and Food Network.

Unless a new agreement is put in place, DStv consumers would start the year with 16 less channels. Here's the thing, MultiChoice likely through its the parent company Canal+ is open to replacing them.

As mentioned, this isn't the first time MultiChoice had been involved in such matters but it is under Canal+. If they're bullish on the matter, then expect for consumers to lose access to Teen Titans GO! and Guy's Grocery Games.

From the looks of things, it appears as if Warner Bros. Discovery is open to retaining these channels or at least a few of them as they mention wanting to reach an agreement that benefits both parties.

Below is channels I believe safe, mild, at risk or likely to get the axe

Discovery Channel - Safe

Discovery Channel is a male oriented factual entertainment brand offering educational and wildlife content alongside other content. These include shows like Dirty Jobs, Gold Rush, Deadliest Catch and Mythbusters.

TLC - Safe

TLC is a female tailored brand offering content ranging from medical, lifestyle to reality basically rivalling with NBCUniversal's Bravo. It includes shows like 90 Day Fiance, Sister Wives, Dr. Pimple Popper and My 600LB Life.

Cartoon Network - Safe

Cartoon Network is a children's channel offering animation ranging from comedy, adventure and action for children's aged 6-12. It is home to shows like Adventure Time, The Powerpuff Girls, Craig Of The Creek and Teen Titans GO!.

CNN International - Safe

CNN International is a 24 hour channel offering news related programming and aimed at overseas territories similar to BBC News and Aljazeera. They offer news coverage in the world of sports, technology, science and politics.

Investigation Discovery - Mild

Investigation Discovery is a factual based channel offering content that ranges from paranormal, crime and investigative journalism. It includes shows like Death By Fame, Evil Lives Here and Murder Under Friday Night Lights.

Cartoonito - Mild

Cartoonito is a preschool channel offering content for viewers aged 2-5 years with a mixture of comedy and education. These include shows like Cocomelon, Thomas And Friends: All Engines Go!, Mr. Bean and Batwheels.

TNT - At Risk

TNT is a male oriented and family inclusive movie channel offering films ranging from action, adventure, sci-fi and horror. Since it's inception, TNT has been ranked as the #1 movie channel within the market and aside from films offers content from wrestling promotion, All Elite Wrestling. 

Real Time - At Risk 

Real Time is a lifestyle oriented brand offering shows ranging from home and decor, foodies, wildlife and investigation. It offers programming from Animal Planet, Investigation Discovery, Food Network and HGTV.

HGTV - At Risk

HGTV as the name implies is a home and gardening channel offering reality programming related to home improvement and real estate. It includes shows like Ugliest House In America, My Lottery Dream Home and Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge.

Discovery Family - Axe

Discovery Family is viewed as family based channel offering content ranging from wildlife, science, technology and automobiles. Most of its programming comes from Discovery Channel and Animal Planet.

Travel Channel - Axe

Travel Channel is regarded a tourist destination for travel and leisure with its own themed content and part of the time it dwells on the supernatural. This includes shows like House Hunters International, Building Alaska and Destination Bigfoot.

Food Network - Axe

Food Network is a cable network that offers programming about food and cooking. It features shows like Holiday Baking Championship, Guy's Grocery Games, Beat Bobby Flay and Chopped.

Could MultiChoice Risk Losing More DStv Channels Ahead Of Paramount Africa's Exit In The Market?

As reported, MultiChoice is set to lose four channels by the end of 2025 including CBS Reality, CBS Justice, BET and MTV Base. This forms part of a corporate restructure at Paramount that will see the closure of several international channels.

In an email sent to various DStv consumers not long ago, MultiChoice has now warned it's subscribers that they could be losing an additional 12 channels by the end of 2025. For sometime, they've been embroiled in a carriage dispute with Warner Bros. Discovery and no agreement is in place.

This means Cartoon Network, Cartoonito, CNN, TNT, Discovery Channel, TLC, Discovery Family, Real Time, Investigation Discovery, Food Network, HGTV and Travel Channel could be going dark on DStv and GOtv by 1st January 2026.

MultiChoice has been involved in multiple carriage disputes in the past there was one with A+E Global Media for History, Lifetime and C+I. Followed by eMedia Investments who provide eToonz, eExtra, eMovies and eMovies Extra which dragged on for 2 and half years.

It's currently unclear what led to this but from what I understand Warner Bros. Discovery will be closing off Cartoon Network in New Zealand and possibly Italy. It had been alleged that Warner Bros. Discovery wants more money and MultiChoice refused.

Again nothing is confirmed here but its also been alleged MultiChoice which is now owned by Canal+ wants to pay less for these channels. A few months ago, they decided to reduce payments to various suppliers and contractors by 20%.

But if you had to look at past disputes particularly the one with A+E Global Media there's a strong chance that CBS Justice, CBS Reality, BET and MTV Base won't be the only ones leaving DStv.

"our priority is to provide you with the best entertainment experience at the best possible pricing"

While it's too soon to speculate, MultiChoice does mention wanting to provide the best entertainment experience at the best possible pricing. To me this seems like an indicator that the company could be looking to shed costs or minimise rates.

If there are channels expected to leave DStv soon which I believe might be the case I'd imagine niche brands like Travel Channel would be axed. Followed by TNT as MultiChoice already boasts a diverse lineup of films through M-Net Movies, Movie Room and KIX.

Through an enquiry, MultiChoice had said to DStv subscribers that it is ready to replace Warner Bros. Discovery's TV channels with alternatives. But it's unlikely that all channels would be replaced some like TNT already come with those alternatives.

Cartoon Network, TNT Africa And 12 More Channels Could Be Exiting DStv As MultiChoice And Warner Bros. Discovery Enter A Carriage Dispute

DStv parent MultiChoice Group on Monday sent a warning to its subscribers: that 12 Warner Bros Discovery-owned channels could be removed from all DStv bouquets in the coming weeks should the two parties fail to reach a new distribution agreement.

In a letter, which was sent as an on-screen pop up and e-mail to DStv customers, MultiChoice said it will continue to strive to give customers an “exceptional entertainment package”, whether a new deal is struck or not.

“The distribution agreement between MultiChoice and Warner Bros Discovery is scheduled to end on 31 December 2025. While discussions between the parties continue, no agreement has been reached at this stage. If this remains unchanged, a number of Warner Bros Discovery channels may no longer be available on DStv from 1 January 2026,” MultiChoice said in a letter to subscribers on Monday.

The 12 channels that could be affected are:

• Discovery Channel

• CNN International

• TLC

• Discovery Family

• Real Time

• TNT Africa

• Food Network

• HGTV

• Investigation Discovery

• Cartoon Network

• Cartoonito

• Travel Channel

MultiChoice hinted at a possible refreshed channel line-up in 2026: it said it is “preparing to further strengthen and enrich its line-up with new content, channels and services” in the new year.

The changes will affect all DStv customers across Africa; customers of sister company Showmax will not be affected should the Warner Bros content be removed from DStv.

Subscriber losses

The news comes as MultiChoice parent company, French pay-TV giant Groupe Canal+, stated its commitment to stemming the subscriber decline at MultiChoice. In a presentation to investors, Canal+ revealed that a 1.2 million year-over-year loss in subscribers to the year-ended 31 March had accelerated to 1.4 million year on year by end-June. Canal+ said it will leverage cost optimisation to reset the cost base across its African operations while taking advantage of groupwide technology “synergies” to drive costs down even further.

“What matters most is ensuring that your viewing experience remains rich, diverse and enjoyable. You will continue to enjoy an exceptional entertainment experience across your package, supported by strong alternative channels across every genre,” MultiChoice told customers about the Warner Bros Discovery talks.  

Paramount Likely To Be The Frontrunner In Bid For Warner Bros. Discovery

Paramount is the frontrunner in the race to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, according to a new report from the NY Post. What’s giving Paramount the advantage? A source for the NY Post says that Paramount is the only company to make an offer that includes CNN as part of the deal.

Paramount, Comcast, and Netflix all submitted bids by the deadline on November 20, with Comcast and Netflix showing interest in the studio and streaming side of the business, while Paramount made an offer to buy it all.

While any sale would have to go through regulatory approval, the NY Post says that Paramount will have a much easier time moving through that process. The company got FCC approval for its merger with Skydance after settling a a $16 million lawsuit with President Trump over a 60 Minutes interview with Kamala Harris ahead of the 2024 election, and making a promise to commit to to “unbiased journalism” by airing news and entertainment programming across the political spectrum. Post-sale, Paramount put Bari Weiss of The Free Press in charge of news.

Now, CNN could be getting the CBS News treatment. If Paramount succeeds in acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery, CNN would likely also be put under Weiss’ management and made more Trump administration-friendly. Knowing that, Paramount owners are likely to quickly be given the greenlight in the regulatory approval process while Netflix and Comcast, the NY Post points out, would not.

Comcast owns left-leaning news network MSNBC, which CEO Brian Roberts is spinning off, along with other networks including CNBC and USA, into a new entity called Versant. Netflix leaders Reed Hastings and Ted Sarandos have been known to support left-leaning causes. Those ties might work against both companies with this administration, on top of Comcast and Netflix only showing interest in half of the Warner Bros. Discovery business.

Paramount Will Likely Streamline Warner Bros. Discovery If It's Acquisition Is Successful

David Ellison had recently formed Paramount Skydance and is currently in pursuit of Warner Bros. Discovery. If it's takeover bid is successful, this would bring Paramount's CBS, Nickelodeon and Comedy Central alongside WBD's CNN, HGTV and Discovery under one umbrella.

Paramount had stated that if their acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery is successful both companies would continue operate independently think of DreamWorks Animation and Illumination. Although, no merger plans are underway that doesn't exclude the possibility of reductions.

MTV will be shutting down its music channels by the end of 2025 across the world alongside various other channels. Paramount is undergoing a restructure and wants to align their remaining brands to streaming and Warner Bros. Discovery will follow in this pursuit.

Paramount intends to merge it's 79 million subscribers on Paramount+ with that of 128 million from HBO Max. This would give them 209 million subscribers and their rival Disney+ would fall short at 195 following its merger with Hulu.

Rather than scale back on spending in the event of an acquisition, Paramount wants to increase content spend with its buyout of Warner Bros. Discovery. With over 200 million subscribers, that is very much possible in such a scenario think of Netflix and how much content it offers in a year.

The issues pertaining to the buyout is a difference in narratives if Warner Bros. Discovery had diversity initiatives that is likely to get phased out. Prior to the Paramount takeover, Skydance didn't offer such and never intended to do so same could be awaiting this buyout.

As for creative teams, Paramount wants to continue to keep those separate but it's less likely that the number of employees would remain the same in such a transaction. If there's an underperforming studio, that is most definitely expected to shut down.

Lastly cable networks, as reported Paramount will be closing several channels before the year ends most of which were regional. Warner Bros. Discovery is a company which carries a lot of cable networks mainly from Discovery Inc. with others viewed internationally.

Paramount could opt to retain Discovery Channel, HGTV and Cartoon Network as these brands have global appeal. Perhaps phase out underperforming/niche brands like Travel Channel alongside regional ones like TNT and Real Time.

What remains clear here in Warner Bros. Discovery's pursuit of a potential buyer with Comcast, Netflix and Paramount being eyed. HBO Max could be consolidated under another rival platform and also massive layoffs await whatever is left of the company.

Could Warner Bros. Discovery Be Moving Various Content From Cartoonito To Cartoon Network In Africa?

In March 2023, it was announced that Boomerang would be rebranding to Cartoonito as part of an alignment strategy. At the time, it was stated that all of Boomerang's shows would be retained once the channel switches to Cartoonito this included shows like Mr. Bean and Looney Tunes Cartoons.

Cartoonito is a preschool brand operated by Warner Bros. Discovery that offers fun and entertaining content for kids and their families. This was this structure the company opted to market in some parts of Europe while others tried to align it with Disney Jr. and Nick Jr.

But alas, Mr. Magoo was announced as a new series for Cartoon Network although being made available to Cartoonito when it was still Boomerang. It could imply one of two scenarios first Warner Bros. Discovery blantly lied another could be that their removals part of the long term goals.

This is what happened to Cartoonito in Latin America when it replaced Boomerang so why would Africa be immune to these changes. Warner Bros. Discovery had a goal and that was to get Boomerang viewers to latch onto Cartoonito to avoid further alienation.

Warner Bros. Discovery in Africa had stated the decision to transform Boomerang into Cartoonito was part of an "alignment strategy". The reality is in most markets Cartoonito is basically another Nick Jr. or Cbeebies with gaps in-between for other content.

Cartoon Network has been getting various content Warner Bros. Discovery marketed for Boomerang like Tiny Toons Looniversity and soon Scooby-Doo And Guess Who?. Even Scooby-Doo Mystery Incorporated that went to Boomerang after its run has resurfaced on the network.

What happened to Cartoonito retaining all of Boomerang's IPs are these set to become an afterthought?

Cartoon Network will be airing Space Jam: A New Legacy in December and it wouldn't surprise me if it led to the addition of Looney Tunes Cartoons. Some consumers had stated that these shows were too mature for a preschool brand and Warner Bros. Discovery let this subside for almost two years.

They led some people to believe that Cartoonito was Boomerang's equivalent within Africa yet you have all this content on Cartoon Network. In the UK, most of this content including Tiny Toons Looniversity is being distributed on Boomerang.

On the upside, I don't think most consumers would have noticed or cared as much if these shows were to suddenly disappear from Cartoonito. They have prioritised on other shows like Zig & Sharko, Batwheels and Cocomelon it could've been a lot worser had this been done two years earlier. 

If anything this change does add more confusion and mystery, Boomerang had prioritized on reruns for their own shows. Seeing as it's no longer Boomerang how much of that would be distributed on Cartoonito because so far it seems like the stars could be aligning with Cartoon Network.

7 Years Ago, Discovery's Real Time Was Launched In Place Of Animal Planet And To Combat TLC On MultiChoice's DStv

Real Time is described as a female based lifestyle channel initially offering content from TLC, Animal Planet and Investigation Discovery. Overtime, TLC was gradually phased out from the lineup in favour of Food Network and HGTV.

MultiChoice added Real Time as a replacement to Animal Planet but the problem with its inclusion was that it was being tailored for Easyview package. Basically, they were older seasons to shows including those of Animal Planet it was even worse on the TLC side.

TLC was regarded as the wedding channel and Real Time was what TLC looked like without those shows which included Little People - Big World, Toddlers & Tiaras and Sister Wives. As mentioned, Real Time no longer airs on from TLC it likely had to do with its inclusion.

TLC is available to most DStv subscribers it didn't make much sense to launch a channel to offer their shows half of the time especially since TLC would still rerun shows like Kitchen Boss.

Honestly speaking, I kind of question why Real Time even existed I get some subscribers don't have Investigation Discovery, HGTV or Food Network. But then the latter now takes a chunk of TLC's airtime making Real Time look more competitive than complementary.

On a DStv standpoint, consumers can just downgrade from Compact to Easyview seeing as shows like Guy's Grocery Games and Pool Kings are now on Real Time. Hollywood Demons isn't as prehistoric as most of the shows yet it aired on Real Time.

With its parent company undergoing a split or possible sale, I'd imagine some restructuring or due diligence could be underway. Real Time barely markets any of their content and if you're someone who doesn't have access to the main networks for the shows its challenging.

Real Time could as well have aired the first three seasons of Disappeared and you were waiting and had given up on a fourth season. Then it suddenly airs after a few months or a year but you weren't tuning in because no marketing had been done for you to have known.

This has been going on for sometime and imagine in a couple of years Warner Bros. Discovery or whatever is left of it will probably just close Real Time. As mentioned, TLC has split part of its airtime for Discovery's other cable networks making Real Time redundant.

At the same time, it's likely that we could see more consolidation within the industry perhaps with Discovery Family since it's been leaning heavily on Discovery Channel.

Paramount Looking To Increase Its Bid For Warner Bros. Discovery To $71 Billion

David Ellison’s Paramount Skydance is said to be turning to new partners in the Middle East to help back his offer to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery in its entirety.

Paramount Skydance has formed an investment consortium with the sovereign wealth funds of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Abu Dhabi to submit a bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, sources told Variety. The bid is being largely backed by the Ellison family (which owns 100% voting control in Paramount Skydance) with involvement from three Arab countries: Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) and the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), the sources said. In addition, Gerry Cardinale’s RedBird Capital is backing the bid.

Each of the funds would put up $7 billion (for a total of $21 billion); Paramount Skydance would front $50 billion for a proposed WBD acquisition for a total of $71 billion. (It’s not clear if that price tag would be inclusive of debt.) The board of Warner Bros. Discovery had previously rejected a $23.50/share offer from David Ellison.

The board of Warner Bros. Discovery has set a Nov. 20 deadline for initial bids from interested acquirers, which also include Comcast and Netflix.

Separately Tuesday, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was meeting at the White House with President Trump.

Meanwhile, Comcast co-CEO Brian Roberts traveled to Saudi Arabia in late October to attend a conference in Riyadh hosted by the PIF, Variety has confirmed. He also visited Qiddiya, where the country is building a theme park destination, to scope out the area for a possible Universal park in the area. But it’s not known whether Roberts solicited investment backing from the Saudis for a Warner Bros. bid by Comcast.

Reps for Paramount Skydance, Warner Bros. Discovery and Comcast declined to comment.

Under the scenario in the WBD bid led by Paramount Skydance, the Saudi, Qatar and Abu Dhabi funds would hold small minority stakes in Warner Bros. Discovery. Each of the three would get “an IP, a movie premiere, a movie shoot,” a knowledgeable source told Variety. “All they care about is reputation and soft power,” the source added.

The Saudis do not have “any incentive” to join a prospective Comcast bid for Warner Bros. (excluding WBD’s linear TV networks) because their understanding is that “the Trump administration doesn’t like Comcast CEO Brian Roberts at all,” the source said.

Trump, who has regularly been upset about the coverage of Comcast-owned MSNBC (which is now called MS NOW), earlier this year called Roberts the “chairman of ‘Concast’” and a “lowlife.” Trump has equated the cable news outlet to “an illegal arm of the Democrat Party,” and claimed that Comcast “should be forced to pay vast sums of money for the damage they’ve done to our Country.”

Saudis Reportedly Eyeing Warner Bros. Discovery With Comcast

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia – reportedly worth upwards of a trillion dollars – may be entering the fray for a potential takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), and it may be teaming up with Comcast Corporation.

Comcast CEO Brian Roberts recently traveled to Saudi Arabia, where he held meetings with PIF officials while exploring a WBD bid.

According to The New York Post and Puck News, Roberts also visited Qiddiya, the site of Saudi Arabia’s upcoming “megacity of play” where a Universal‑branded theme park is expected in partnership with Comcast’s theme‑park business.

Why the Saudis Are Interested: Studios, Streaming & Theme Parks

The Saudi connection makes strategic sense. The PIF may want the Warner Bros./DC brand as the anchor for a Universal Studios park in Qiddiya, pairing with Comcast’s existing theme‑park infrastructure.

A Saudi–Comcast alliance would thus bring global content, streaming/IP rights, and a real‑world destination into one package.

Meanwhile, WBD is already positioned for sale: the company plans to split into two public entities — one focused exclusively on studios and streaming (Warner Bros.), and the other on linear networks (Discovery Global) — by mid‑2026.

Fewer Regulatory Hurdles Thanks to Spinoffs

Regulatory concerns that typically plague big media mergers may be reduced in this case.

Comcast is spinning off its U.S. cable networks and related news assets into a new publicly traded company called Versant Media Group Inc., which will leave Comcast primarily with its theme‑park, streaming, and studio assets.

At the same time, WBD’s planned split isolates the studio/streaming business from its legacy cable networks, making the part that potential buyers want cleaner and more streamlined.

What It Means for the WBD Sale Race

If a Saudi–Comcast bid materializes, it could throw a new wrinkle into the running, which already includes Paramount Global/Skydance (led by David Ellison) and streaming players like Netflix.

The presence of Saudi backing adds serious firepower and global ambition. With WBD stock already rising past $20 and Zaslav aiming for far more, a new bidder like this could accelerate or reshape the bidding war.

The article was originally published by Cosmic Book News

Sky New Zealand Launches Two New Channels To Replace Paramount's Offering And Cartoon Network

Sky New Zealand is launching two new self-branded channels to replace Paramount’s Nickelodeon, Nick Jr, Comedy Central and Cartoon Network, which are ceasing transmission from early December.

The new offerings, Sky Comedy and Sky Kids, will carry programming from the expiring channels in addition to new shows from a range of studios and locally commissioned content.

“Kids and comedy programming are at the heart of Sky’s entertainment offering. By bringing these important channels ‘in-house’ we can choose and curate the content that we know our customers enjoy and engage with, combining Paramount fan favourites with content from other studios,” said Fiona Murray, Sky NZ’s head of entertainment.

Sky Comedy will feature Comedy Central content including the final season of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, South Park, The Daily Show and Beavis & Butt-Head, in addition to retro classics including Cheers, Reno 911!, Nathan For You and Key & Peele.

Sky Kids is being pitched as offering educational programming for preschoolers through to primary school-age children. Former Nickelodeon and Nick Jr content will be included alongside “a strong slate of local programming.”

The new outlet will complement the existing CBeebies channel, providing local content including Katie’s Kuri and The Last Moa, as well as multiple seasons of home-grown hits such as Kiri & Lou, The Drawing Show, Extreme Cake Sports and Secrets at Red Rocks.

Sky NZ said some content from the axed channels will continue to be available via on-demand on the new Sky Experience service across the Sky Box and Sky Pod platforms. Cartoon Network content will continue to be available on-demand through the HBO Max hub via the Sky Entertainment package.

The broadcaster has also partnered with Mood TV to bring two new local music channels to its channel line-up, Juice TV and J2, which effectively replace MTV Hits and MTV 80s. In line with the global shutdown of the MTV brand, the music channels will no longer be available via linear in New Zealand.

In October, it was announced that MTV linear channels would progressively shut down in the UK, Poland, France and Brazil. In Australia, the MTV brand has suffered a similar fate, with its channels having been shut down weeks ago by OTT provider Fetch TV. Paramount owned Australian channels MTV 80s, MTV 90s, MTV 00s, MTV Club and MTV Hits which were previously carried by Foxtel in a deal that was not renewed.

All changes to Sky NZ programming take effect from December 2.

Comcast Looking To Make A Bid For Both Warner Bros. Discovery And UK Based Broadcaster ITV

Comcast’s European pay-TV business Sky is in talks to acquire U.K. TV giant ITV’s media and entertainment (M&E) unit.

In a statement early Friday morning London time, ITV said it “is in preliminary discussions regarding a possible sale of its M&E business to Sky for an enterprise value of £1.6 billion,” which translates to $2.1 billion.  

The M&E business includes ITV’s commercial free-to-air TV channels in the U.K., as well as its ITVX streaming platform. Its revenue for the first nine months of 2025 was down 5 percent from the year-ago period to £1.45 billion ($1.90 billion).

Not part of a deal would be production powerhouse ITV Studios, which produces such shows as Love Island, Britain’s Got Talent, and the Harlan Coben Netflix hit series Fool Me Once, among many others. ITV Studios has been the topic of much deal chatter in recent years, with the likes of Banijay, All3Media parent RedBird IMI, and others being cited as potential buyers.

Sky is led by CEO Dana Strong. It not only operates pay-TV and streaming businesses in the U.K., Ireland and Italy, but has also been growing its telecom offerings, such as broadband and mobile phone operations. Sky also owns the production arm Sky Studios, which is led by Cécile Frot-Coutaz and has been growing its investment in original content creation. Recent Sky Studios productions have included the likes of Mary & George, starring Julianne Moore, The Tattooist of Auschwitz, starring Harvey Keitel, and The Day of the Jackal, starring Eddie Redmayne and Lashana Lynch.

While confirming overnight reports of deal talks, ITV on Friday also emphasized that a transaction for its M&E division with Comcast’s Sky may ultimately not come together. “There can be no certainty as to the terms upon which any potential sale may be agreed or whether any transaction will take place,” its statement highlighted. “A further announcement will be made in due course if appropriate.”

lTV is led by CEO Carolyn McCall. The news of the deal talks came after ITV said on Thursday that it was planning $46 million in “temporary,” or “one-off,” cost savings amid “softer” advertising demand in the fourth quarter.

Comcast’s potential play for parts of ITV comes at a time when it also seems to be exploring a potential bid for parts of Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD). Overnight reports said that Comcast has hired Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley to evaluate a possible deal for the David Zaslav-led Hollywood conglomerate’s studio and streaming businesses, following WBD’s recent decision to explore various deal options.

Will Cartoon Network Get A Name Change Under Discovery Global?

Cartoon Network's parent company as some people recall will be undergoing a split within the first quarter of 2026. Discovery Global will serve as the new parent company for the cable network while Teen Titans GO! and Batwheels forms part of Warner Bros.

Similar to Disney/FOX, a licensing agreement could be on the cards for Cartoon Network when it comes to use on the cable network. Warner Bros. which owns the trademark and IPs is being auctioned off to potential buyers including Netflix, Paramount, Apple and Comcast.

In the event of sale/split, Cartoon Network would continue to offer shows like Teen Titans GO! and Regular Show similar to how FOX still airs The Simpsons as it's part of the whole licensing.

In Cartoon Network's case, these may not be first run shows and might be prioritised on third party platforms like Showmax and Netflix. The channel may lean more toward shows like LEGO DREAMZzz and Dragonball Super as they reside from third party studios.  

Of course, Discovery Global won't be able to commission content under the trademark and the division The Cartoon Network Inc. which is used for animation brands like Cartoonito and Boing would have to be renamed in such an event.

Netflix Looking To Bid For Warner Bros.

Netflix is actively exploring a bid for Warner Bros Discovery’s studio and streaming business, retaining a financial advisor and gaining access to financial information, according to three sources familiar with the matter.

The video streaming service has hired Moelis & Co, the investment bank that advised Skydance Media on its successful bid for Paramount Global, to evaluate a prospective offer, two of the sources said. Netflix also has been granted access to the data room, which contains the financial details needed to make a bid, according to two of the sources familiar with the matter.

Warner Bros Discovery and Moelis declined to comment. Netflix could not be reached for comment.

We’ve been very clear in the past that we have no interest in owning legacy media networks

Owning Warner Bros’ studio business would give Netflix control over some of Hollywood’s most successful stories and characters, including the Harry Potter and DC Comics franchises. Warner Bros’ prolific television studio also produces many of Netflix’s hits, including original series like Running Point, You and Maid. HBO and its companion streaming service would add more prestige dramas, and subscribers.

Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos told investors last week that while the company is traditionally “more builders than buyers”, it does evaluate acquisitions based on criteria such as the size of the opportunity and whether it would strengthen the company’s entertainment offerings.

Sarandos indicated Netflix would not be interested in acquiring Warner Bros Discovery’s cable television networks, which include CNN, TNT, Food Network and Animal Planet.

Unsolicited offers

“We’ve been very clear in the past that we have no interest in owning legacy media networks,” Sarandos said in the company’s third-quarter investor video. “There is no change there.”

Warner Bros Discovery announced last week that it would begin evaluating options, after receiving a trio of unsolicited offers from Paramount Skydance to acquire the entire company.

The company said its board would consider whether to move forward with its planned split, which would separate the Warner Bros film and television studios, HBO and the companion HBO Max streaming service from its television business, or pursue a sale of all or parts of the company.

Comcast president Mike Cavanagh told investors on Thursday the company is evaluating media assets that would be “complementary” to its existing business. He also appeared to dismiss those who are sceptical of Comcast winning regulatory approval, saying “more things are viable than maybe some of the public commentary that’s out there”.