Cinemark Joins AMC and Regal in Backing Paramount-Warner Bros. Deal
Cinemark announced its support for the proposed $111 billion merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery, aligning with the other two major U.S. theater chains, while industry lobby group Cinema United remains opposed.
Cinemark has issued a statement endorsing the pending merger of Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery, making it the third of the nation’s largest theater chains to back the $111 billion transaction. The company said a stable theatrical ecosystem depends on financially sound studios and exhibitors that can create, distribute and exhibit high-quality films worldwide. It added that prolonged uncertainty over the deal could divert time and resources from those priorities.
Cinemark noted that Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison has pledged to increase new releases to at least 30 films a year and keep them in theaters for a minimum of 45 days, commitments the chain said align with its long-standing view that media consolidation can improve film quality and output when backed by firm marketing and window guarantees.
Industry lobbying group Cinema United, however, continues to oppose any sale of Warner Bros. The group’s president, Michael O’Leary, warned that a takeover could reduce the number of films available and risk theater closures, citing concerns about disruptions following the pandemic and recent strikes. Cinema United released a statement urging the parties to meet and discuss a settlement that would protect the exhibition sector.
Cinemark said it welcomed the constructive dialogue between Paramount Skydance and Cinema United and expressed appreciation for the trade organization’s advocacy on behalf of theatrical exhibitors.
The endorsements follow similar statements from AMC Theatres and Regal Cinemas. AMC’s chief executive Adam Aron has argued the combined company would strengthen the theatrical business, while Regal’s head Eduardo Acuna warned that delaying the merger could create uncertainty that would harm the industry as box-office revenues rise.
Paramount’s merger plan remains under antitrust scrutiny from a 12-state coalition, with a trial scheduled for 2027. Ellison has indicated he may withdraw Paramount’s California operations as early as October if negotiations do not progress.