California, New York and several other U.S. states are reportedly preparing a lawsuit that could derail the $110 billion merger between Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount. The move comes amid a wave of industry backlash, with more than 5 ,500 actors, writers and directors—including Joaquin Phoenix, Kristen Stewart and Denis Villeneuve—signing a letter protesting the deal. Reuters reports the suit could be filed within the next few weeks, but the full list of challengers remains undisclosed.

California, New York Lead the Antitrust Charge

According to Reuters, the states most likely to file the lawsuit are California and New York, both of which have a history of aggressive antitrust enforcement in the media sector. The lawsuit would argue that the merger would create a monopoly that stifles competition and harms consumers. The timing is critical, as the merger’s regulatory review deadline is approaching and the parties have not yet secured final approval .

Industry‑Wide Opposition: 5,500 Signatories Speak Out

Sources close to the situation say that the entertainment community’s concerns are not merely rhetorical. over 5,500 professionals have signeed a letter to the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Justice, warning that the combined entity would have unprecedented control over content distribution. The letter lists high‑profile names such as Joaquin Phoenix, Kristen Stewart and Denis Villeneuve, underscoring the breadth of unease across the creative spectrum.

Unreleased List of States: Who Will Join the Fight?

While California and New York are confirmed,Reuters notes that the identities of the remaining states remain confidential... The lack of disclosure raises questions about the scope of the challenge and whether federal regulators will be forced to intervene. The uncertainty also fuels speculation about the potential for a multi‑state coalition that could amplify the legal pressure on the merger.

What’s Still Unknown About the Legal Strategy?

Key questions remain: Which specific antitrust provisions will the states invoke? Will the lawsuit target the merger’s impact on streaming services, theatriccal releases, or both? And how will Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount respond—will they seek a settlement or a court‑ordered moratorium on the deal?

Reuters reports that the lawsuit could be filed within the next few weeks, but no official filing has yet occurred. The parties involved will need to weigh the potential financial and reputational costs of a prolonged legal battle against the strategic benefits of the combined entity .