Jane Fonda Warns Netflix-Warner Bros. Deal Could Be “Catastrophic
Jane Fonda joins in on the discussion involving Netflix’s controversial $82.7 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Fonda described the merger as “catastrophic” and even called it a potential “constitutional crisis.” Speaking on behalf of her Committee for the First Amendment (CFA), the actor made it clear that she and the organization are ready to fight. The Academy Award-winning actor implored the Department of Justice to take action and not cave in. She warned everyone that the consolidation could have dire consequences for the future of the entertainment industry. Her statement is just the most recent in a long line of professionals who have spoken out against the Netflix-WB deal, as she and her colleagues fear what the streaming platform would do with its newfound power. Fonda added that Warner Bros. accepting Netflix's offer is incredibly irresponsible and that the industry giant, being one of the oldest movie studios in Hollywood, should have known better. She proceeded to call the transaction a major threat to Hollywood and free expression. She also argued this wasn't just a business deal, it’s a constitutional issue. In her statement, she challenged Netflix and other companies to put the well-being of the industry above money. She stressed the importance of standing firm to protect the rights of artists across the board. Fonda added that she and the CFA will be keeping a close eye on any new developments so they can act quickly if things go too far. Check out Fonda and the CFA's full statement below:
Today’s news that Warner Bros. Discovery has accepted a purchase bid is an alarming escalation of the consolidation that threatens the entire entertainment industry, the democratic public it serves, and the First Amendment itself.
Make no mistake, this is not just a catastrophic business deal that could destroy our creative industry. It is a constitutional crisis exacerbated by the administration’s demonstrated disregard for the law.
To the Justice Department and state attorneys general: We know this deal — or any deal of this magnitude — will trigger your antitrust review obligation, and we demand that you categorically refrain from using that power to extract political concessions that influence content decisions or chill free speech.
To Netflix and any company that becomes involved in this destructive deal: We have watched industry leaders acquiesce to the administration’s demands at the expense of our livelihoods, our storytelling, and our constitutional rights. As stewards of an industry built on free expression, you have a responsibility to defend our rights, not trade them away to pad your pockets. We know there will be enormous pressure to acquiesce, it is critical you stay strong. We are watching closely, organizing, and ready to mobilize.
Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery announced their new deal on December 5, 2025, after intense negotiations. The streaming platform beat out several major studios in the bidding war, including Paramount and Comcast. Fonda revived the CFA, which was originally co-founded by her father, Henry Fonda, in 1947. Relaunched in 2025, her version of the organization focuses on defending constitutional rights amid concerns about the Trump Administration's influence in the media. The group aims to protect artists from censorship.
