Paramounts aggressive attempt to buy Warner Bros. Discovery just hit a major wall and that wall may have saved AEWs cable future, at least for now.
According to Bloomberg, Warner Bros. Discovery has rejected the takeover offer from Paramount Skydance Corporation. The proposal, reportedly valued at around $20 per share, was seen as too low by WBD, which felt the valuation didnt match the companys worth.
That doesnt mean Paramount is done trying. Sources say theyre still exploring other paths including raising the bid, going directly to shareholders, or bringing in new financial partners to bolster their offer.
If the buyout had gone through, it couldve sent shockwaves across the television landscape especially in the world of pro wrestling. AEWs weekly programming airs on Warner-owned TBS and TNT, while WWEs partner, UFC, recently cut a major deal with Paramount+ and CBS.
That potential crossover created a big what if around AEWs TV future, especially with Warner previously announcing that it will restructure into two core branches by 2026: Global Networks and Streaming & Studios. AEW is currently part of the cable networks side.
While things remain steady for AEW, nothing is truly set in stone. Paramount still has options and industry insiders know the entertainment world shifts fast.
Do you think Warner Bros. made the right move rejecting the offer? Should AEW fans still be worried about the next round of media shakeups? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let us know where youd want AEW to land if changes do happen.
