Source TOI
Netflix has rejected an offer from Paramount Global, signaling little interest in pursuing any form of merger or acquisition with the Hollywood studio. According to sources familiar with the matter, Netflix executives concluded that Paramount had little to offer strategically, apart from the involvement of Oracle founder Larry Ellison through his family’s stake in the company.
The decision highlights Netflix’s confidence in its independent growth strategy at a time when traditional media companies are struggling with slowing television revenues and mounting streaming losses. Paramount, which owns assets such as CBS, Paramount Pictures and the streaming platform Paramount+, has been exploring strategic options to improve its financial position and unlock shareholder value.
Sources said Netflix carefully evaluated the proposal but ultimately determined that Paramount’s content library, studio operations and streaming business did not align with Netflix’s long-term priorities. The streaming giant is said to believe it already competes effectively with Paramount’s offerings and does not see significant synergies that would justify a deal.
Larry Ellison’s role emerged as one of the few notable elements of interest in discussions. Ellison’s son, David Ellison, through Skydance Media, has been involved in negotiations related to Paramount, and the Ellison family’s backing was viewed as a potential stabilizing factor. However, this alone was not enough to persuade Netflix to reconsider its stance.
Paramount has not publicly commented on the rejection, while Netflix declined to discuss internal deal evaluations. Industry analysts say the rebuff underscores the widening gap between profitable, global-first streaming platforms and legacy media companies still adapting to a rapidly changing entertainment landscape.
With Netflix choosing to stay the course, Paramount is expected to continue seeking other strategic partners or restructuring options as it navigates ongoing challenges in the media and streaming industry.
