Actors Warn UK Media at Risk from Paramount-Warner Bros Merger

Prominent actors Alan Cumming, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Benedict Wong have voiced strong concerns over the proposed merger between Paramount and Warner Bros Discovery, warning it could severely damage the British film and television industry. They emphasize that the merger threatens jobs, cultural diversity, and the plurality of voices in UK media.

The UK’s Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, has indicated she may intervene in the $110 billion deal, recognizing its potential harm to the public interest. This follows legal action in the United States where several states have sued to block the merger, citing risks of higher prices, fewer films, and reduced quality.

The actors highlight that the merger would consolidate a vast amount of media assets, including Channel 5 and CNN International, potentially controlling much of the UK’s news and entertainment content. They warn that this concentration could limit the diversity of viewpoints and editorial independence, impacting what audiences see and know.

They urge the UK government to take decisive action to protect the industry’s workers, culture, and public service broadcasting. The actors stress that this is a crucial moment to preserve the UK’s film and television heritage and prevent the negative effects of media consolidation.