An HBO Max subscriber has filed a nationwide antitrust class action against Netflix over its proposed $72 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, claiming the deal could harm consumers by raising prices and reducing content diversity. The complaint, filed in the Northern District of California, argues that merging Netflix’s dominant global streaming platform with Warner Bros. Discovery’s studios and streaming services would significantly decrease competition in the U.S. subscription video-on-demand market.
Plaintiff Michelle Fendelander, representing subscribers who paid for HBO Max since December 2021, asserts that the merger would allow Netflix to raise subscription fees, limit content quality and availability, and reduce innovation, while making it harder for new competitors to enter the market. The lawsuit cites Section 7 of the Clayton Act and seeks to protect consumers from diminished choice and higher costs. The filing comes as Paramount Skydance launched a rival bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, promising more cash to shareholders and arguing its deal would increase competition. Political figures, including Senator Elizabeth Warren, have raised antitrust and national security concerns over both bids, while former President Donald Trump has said he is still assessing the market implications. Netflix has not commented on the lawsuit.