Nebraska AG leads coalition on Netflix-Warner Bros. merger review

The Warner Bros. water tower is seen at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, Calif., Friday, Dec. 5, 2025. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

Press release

LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers, alongside Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen, is leading an 11-state coalition asking the U.S. Department of Justice to closely examine Netflix’s proposed merger with Warner Bros.

In a letter to the DOJ, the attorneys general say the merger could give Netflix significant control over the market. They argue that could lead to higher prices, less innovation and lower-quality content — ultimately affecting Nebraska consumers.

“I joined my colleagues in urging the U.S. Department of Justice to critically examine Netflix’s proposed merger with Warner Brothers. We have serious concerns with the impact of this proposed merger on Nebraskans, and will work with the DOJ and our state partners and determine the appropriate steps forward to protect Nebraskans from anti-competitive conduct,” said Attorney General Hilgers.

The coalition also raised concerns about the potential impact on movie theaters. Warner Bros. regularly releases major films in theaters, including blockbusters. Netflix executives have previously criticized the traditional theater model.

If Netflix gains control of Warner Bros., the attorneys general say it could limit theatrical releases, cutting into a major source of revenue for theaters. That comes as theaters continue recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and Hollywood strikes.

Hilgers said he will continue advocating for competitive markets that benefit Nebraska consumers.

Attorneys general from Alabama, Alaska, Iowa, Kansas, North Dakota, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah and West Virginia also signed the letter.