Florence Pugh and Pedro Pascal joined an open letter that brings together more than 2 thousand professionals from Hollywood. The initiative seeks to block the merger between Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery. The letter was initially released on Monday, April 13, 2026, at The New York Times and is available on the website BlocktheMerger.com.
The joining of the two actors occurred one day after the initial launch. Outros new signatories include Edward Norton and Atsuko Okatsuka. The proposed acquisition was announced in late February 2026 and is estimated to be worth $111 billion.
Open letter highlights concern about sector independence
The letter states that the merger could prioritize the interests of a small group of shareholders over the broader public good. The signatories argue that the integrity, independence and diversity of the film and television industry would be compromised. Eles argue that competition is fundamental to a healthy economy and democracy.
The document also mentions the need for adequate regulation and supervision. Entre the first signatories were Joaquin Phoenix, Ben Stiller and Kristen Stewart. The list grew quickly and now exceeds 2 thousand names.
- Joaquin Phoenix
- Ben Stiller
- Kristen Stewart
- Florence Pugh
- Pedro Pascal
- Edward Norton
- Atsuko Okatsuka
The list includes directors, screenwriters, actors and other professionals in the sector. Muitos have current or past ties to the studios involved.
Response from Paramount to the professionals’ statement
Paramount issued a note in response to the letter. The company said it understands the concerns raised by the creative community. Ela reaffirms the commitment to protecting and expanding creativity in the sector.
The statement highlights plans to increase production to at least 30 high-quality films per year for theatrical release. The company also mentioned the continuity of content licensing and the preservation of iconic brands with independent creative leadership. Segundo a note, the goal is to provide more opportunities for creators, not fewer.
The merger still depends on regulatory and shareholder approvals. The Warner Bros. Discovery shareholder meeting to vote on the transaction is scheduled for April 2026.
Initial signatories and recent accessions
The initial group of signatories included names such as Adam McKay, Alan Cumming, Alyssa Milano, Bryan Cranston, Cynthia Nixon, Damon Lindelof, David Fincher, Denis Villeneuve, Elliot Page, Glenn Close, Alan Cumming0, JJ Alan Cumming1, Alan Cumming2, Alan Cumming3, Alan Cumming4-Manuel Alan Cumming5, Alan Cumming6, Alan Cumming7 and others.
Recent additions have expanded the reach of the initiative. Florence Pugh and Pedro Pascal stand out among the new names. The letter gained additional support from figures such as Rosie O’Donnell, Ted Danson, Tiffany Haddish and Yorgos Lanthimos.
Context of the merger announced in February
Paramount Skydance announced its intention to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery after a competitive process that involved other proposals, including one from Netflix. The transaction was valued at approximately 111 billion dollars.
The agreement provides for cash payments to shareholders of Warner Bros. Discovery. Executivos of the two companies stated that the union would create a stronger global company. Críticos, however, point to risks of reduced diversity of voices and competition in the entertainment market.
The demonstration by professionals at Hollywood reflects debates about the size and power of large media companies. The letter was published while the regulatory approval process is still ongoing.
Details about the website and document access
The full text of the open letter is available at BlocktheMerger.com. The page gathers signatures and explains the reasons for the opposition.
Professionals from different audiovisual areas participate in the movement. The initiative gained visibility after being published on The New York Times. Novas subscribers continued to arrive in the hours following the launch.
