Disney insiders are enjoying a spectacle reminiscent of schadenfreude as Netflix and Paramount vie for control of Warner Bros. The Disney executive's candid assessment that "I just don’t get it" highlights the skepticism surrounding Netflix's interest in acquiring the struggling studio.
For a company like Netflix, which has already taken on significant debt with its acquisition of 21st Century Fox's entertainment assets six years ago, adding Warner Bros.' vast library and production capabilities may seem counterintuitive. The Disney executive pointed out that Netflix would be taking on significant legacy assets, including redundant systems and integration headaches.
Meanwhile, Paramount is seen as a more suitable partner for Warner Bros., with its proven track record in building franchises like Star Trek and Transformers. This perception might explain why insiders view the battle for control of Warner Bros. as "watching all this unfold" - with schadenfreude on Disney's part.
The focus at Disney has shifted to determining who will succeed CEO Bob Iger, a question that is expected to be settled soon. Insider estimates suggest Josh D'Amaro remains the top contender, thanks in part to his oversight of Disney's recent video game push, including its partnership with Epic Games. However, some have speculated about exploring the co-CEO model, much like Netflix has done.
As tensions between the parties escalate, it will be interesting to see how this saga unfolds. One thing is certain: for now, Disney insiders are indulging in a bit of schadenfreude at the expense of their competitors, enjoying the drama and intrigue surrounding the battle for control of Warner Bros.
For a company like Netflix, which has already taken on significant debt with its acquisition of 21st Century Fox's entertainment assets six years ago, adding Warner Bros.' vast library and production capabilities may seem counterintuitive. The Disney executive pointed out that Netflix would be taking on significant legacy assets, including redundant systems and integration headaches.
Meanwhile, Paramount is seen as a more suitable partner for Warner Bros., with its proven track record in building franchises like Star Trek and Transformers. This perception might explain why insiders view the battle for control of Warner Bros. as "watching all this unfold" - with schadenfreude on Disney's part.
The focus at Disney has shifted to determining who will succeed CEO Bob Iger, a question that is expected to be settled soon. Insider estimates suggest Josh D'Amaro remains the top contender, thanks in part to his oversight of Disney's recent video game push, including its partnership with Epic Games. However, some have speculated about exploring the co-CEO model, much like Netflix has done.
As tensions between the parties escalate, it will be interesting to see how this saga unfolds. One thing is certain: for now, Disney insiders are indulging in a bit of schadenfreude at the expense of their competitors, enjoying the drama and intrigue surrounding the battle for control of Warner Bros.