Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is calling for immediate negotiations between California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Paramount to resolve the antitrust lawsuit blocking the studio’s proposed merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. Speaking at a Thursday press conference, Bass emphasized that the prolonged legal battle is harming the local entertainment industry and its workers, with productions stalled and employment uncertain across the region.
The mayor stressed that her position is not about favoring either party, but rather protecting Los Angeles’s economic interests and workforce. She highlighted that any potential settlement must include commitments to maintain both companies’ presence in the city, preserve jobs, and continue supporting film and television production in California. Bass expressed concern that the current uncertainty poses significant challenges to an industry already struggling with declining production levels.
A Los Angeles County report released earlier this week estimated the merger could eliminate approximately 4,500 entertainment jobs within three years, compounding losses the region has already experienced. The legal standstill has taken on added urgency as Paramount faces mounting financial penalties and has indicated potential plans to relocate operations out of state if the merger does not close by September. Bass’s call for swift resolution aligns with similar statements from other California Democratic leaders advocating for a negotiated settlement rather than protracted litigation.
Originally reported by Variety →
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