UPDATE: In a bold move shaking the media landscape, billionaire Larry Ellison and his son David Ellison have launched a staggering $160 billion hostile bid for Warner Bros Discovery. This announcement comes just after their successful acquisition of Paramount, a deal that has positioned them as formidable players in Hollywood.
This father-son duo is not just pursuing a media empire; they aim to reshape the entertainment world with their combined influence. The implications of their bid are profound, potentially shifting control of major assets including CNN and TikTok into their hands.
On Monday, David Ellison made it clear that his father is key to this strategy, revealing that Larry personally guaranteed $40.4 billion of the Paramount offer. This partnership marks a significant evolution in their relationship, transforming from distant to a collaborative powerhouse in the media sector.
According to sources familiar with their plans, the Ellisons are in constant communication—speaking about five times a week—navigating the complex waters of media financing and regulatory approval. They are even strategizing on how to engage with Donald Trump, who must approve significant acquisitions. Larry Ellison has positioned himself as a key advocate, arguing to the Trump administration why their bid should take precedence over competitors like Netflix.
“We,” or “the Ellison family,” David emphasized, reflecting their unified approach in this bold venture.
Amidst their aggressive expansion, they face hurdles, notably Warner Bros’ concerns regarding financing. However, the Ellisons are undeterred, leveraging their experience and connections in the industry. Larry, a tech titan and Oracle co-founder, has a storied history in hostile acquisitions dating back to the 1990s.
If successful, the Ellisons could rival the influence of media giants like the Murdoch family, reshaping the news and entertainment landscape. The potential for a more conservative editorial direction at CBS News has already raised eyebrows, especially after Trump expressed a desire for such changes in discussions with Larry.
The Ellison’s rise in the media sector comes in the wake of David’s previous endeavors in Hollywood, including a brief acting career financed by his father. Their relationship has strengthened over the years, particularly through shared interests like flying and philanthropy.
As they pursue this monumental deal, the stakes are incredibly high—not just for the Ellisons but for the entire media industry. Observers are keenly watching how their bid unfolds and what it means for the future of news and entertainment.
Next steps for the Ellisons include navigating the regulatory landscape and addressing concerns from Warner Bros executives. Their strategy will likely involve continued discussions with Trump and efforts to present a compelling case for their acquisition.
With the media world on high alert, the Ellisons’ actions could redefine the power dynamics in Hollywood. The urgency of this unfolding story has captured attention across the industry, with many wondering how their ambitious plans will play out.
