California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the cancellation of a scheduled Monday meeting with Paramount Skydance, citing the entertainment company’s conduct in prior settlement discussions. Bonta stated that Paramount failed to maintain confidentiality regarding a Friday meeting between the parties and additionally mischaracterized the substance of those discussions, which he characterized as demonstrating a lack of good faith engagement.
Bonta indicated a willingness to resume negotiations if Paramount demonstrates genuine commitment to resolving the matter. He stated that his office remains prepared to meet with the company once it ceases “playing games” and engages in sincere discussions. The scheduled Monday meeting was intended to address settlement options related to California’s antitrust lawsuit against the proposed merger.
Paramount responded by denying responsibility for the information leaks and reaffirming its commitment to good faith discussions. The company stated it remains hopeful about reaching a resolution that would allow it to proceed with its acquisition plans while benefiting entertainment industry workers and expanding competition and content output.
Bonta is leading a coalition of 11 other state attorneys general in litigation seeking to block the merger. The group filed suit in July, arguing that combining Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery would result in excessive consolidation of film and basic television programming control. Earlier statements from Bonta indicated openness to settlement discussions while noting that any resolution would require “robust structural remedies” from Paramount. A trial in the antitrust case is scheduled for March, with the companies having agreed to postpone the deal’s closing until as late as June 2027.
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