Netflix’s $82.7 billion purchase of Warner Bros. will bestow the streaming powerhouse with authority over Warner Bros.’ film and television studios, encompassing HBO, HBO Max, and Warner Bros.’ extensive film and TV collections.
The agreement is pending endorsement from the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Upon approval, Netflix will secure major film and television properties from Warner Bros., including ongoing series such as The Last of Us and The Pitt, completed shows like The Sopranos and Friends, as well as films ranging from Casablanca to Dune.
This acquisition will also bring several pivotal franchises under Netflix’s banner. Here are five key franchises and their potential ramifications for the future:
1. Harry Potter
Netflix will gain ownership of all eight Harry Potter films, the three Fantastic Beasts films, and HBO’s forthcoming Harry Potter television series, scheduled for a 2027 launch. The series has incited debate due to J.K. Rowling’s involvement and her past remarks considered transphobic.
2. DC
With the acquisition of Warner Bros., Netflix secures a significant superhero franchise, encompassing animated programs such as Batman: The Animated Series, Harley Quinn, and Teen Titans; CW series like Flash and Green Arrow; along with earlier DC films including Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy, classic Batman and Superman entries, and the DC Extended Universe (DCEU).
The existing DC Universe, spearheaded by James Gunn and Peter Safran, comprises shows like Peacemaker and the forthcoming Lanterns, as well as upcoming films such as Supergirl and the Superman sequel Man of Tomorrow, positioning Netflix as a strong rival to Disney and Marvel Studios.
3. Game of Thrones
Netflix will possess Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon, the anticipated A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, and any future spinoffs set in Westeros. Developments surrounding Aegon’s conquest of Westeros, Corlys Velaryon’s journeys, and the warrior-queen Nymeria’s foundation of Dorne are underway, potentially cementing Netflix’s supremacy in streaming.
4. The Monsterverse
Warner Bros.’ Monsterverse, featuring titles like Godzilla vs. Kong and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, has amassed over $2.5 billion globally. Netflix intends to sustain theatrical releases for Warner Bros. films, though it remains unclear whether they will uphold Warner Bros.’ extended release schedules or implement their own abbreviated approach.
5. Looney Tunes
Netflix will take over Cartoon Network and Adult Swim, incorporating properties like Tom and Jerry, Scooby Doo, Rick and Morty, and Looney Tunes. The Looney Tunes franchise has encountered hurdles under Warner Bros. Discovery, with projects like Coyote vs. Acme canceled for tax benefits and distribution rights for The Day The Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie sold to Ketchup Entertainment. Classic Looney Tunes shorts were eliminated from HBO Max in 2025 but achieved success on Tubi.
Will Netflix manage the Looney Tunes franchise more effectively, or will it continue Warner Bros. Discovery’s pattern of offloading this legendary franchise?