Netflix Plans To Buy Warner Bros. Discovery Streaming Unit For $72B

By Benadeta Mwaura - Reporter

Kenya, 5 December 2025 - Streaming giant Netflix has announced a landmark agreement to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery’s core studios and streaming business, a deal valued at $72 billion in equity terms and roughly $82.7 billion in enterprise value.

This acquisition comes after WBD announced plans to spin off its Global Cable Networks arm, which includes CNN, Turner, and other linear channels. Once the spin-off is complete, Netflix will integrate WBD’s film and television studios, as well as its streaming service, into a combined content powerhouse.

The acquisition significantly expands Netflix’s library, bringing under its roof a vast array of intellectual property ranging from blockbuster franchises to classic television and animation.

Among the notable assets are the DC Universe franchises, premium series from HBO/Max, and beloved children’s content including Looney Tunes and Tiny Toons Looniversity.

Netflix’s acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery’s studios and streaming division could reshape Africa’s streaming market, potentially lowering subscription costs and expanding content access. — Analysts say the deal may accelerate competition with local platforms and boost demand for African-produced content across the continent | Credit: Dawan Africa

This extensive catalog will considerably enhance Netflix’s global offering and could transform how African audiences access high-value international content.

For viewers in Africa, the deal has the potential to improve access to premium content and bring nostalgic family-friendly shows to streaming platforms for the first time.

Many African households have historically relied on pay-TV or fragmented streaming services to access Warner Bros. content, but the consolidation under Netflix could make a broad range of films and series available under a single subscription.

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Popular animated shows, classic movies, and modern series could become more accessible, particularly as smartphone and internet penetration increase across the continent.

However, access is not guaranteed immediately. Regulatory approvals in multiple markets, including Africa, as well as licensing agreements and regional broadcasting permissions, will determine how quickly and widely the content becomes available.

Internet infrastructure and data affordability remain key considerations, as streaming high-quality content requires stable broadband. Additionally, traditional pay-TV platforms may need to adapt, renegotiate rights, or focus on local content to remain competitive, given that global content will now be increasingly accessible via Netflix.

The deal also signals a shift in content strategy for Africa, offering the possibility of integrated streaming and premium content delivery. The success of the acquisition in local markets will depend on mindful licensing, regional pricing, and continued investment in digital infrastructure to ensure broad accessibility.

Ted Sarandos, co-CEO of Netflix, commented on the transaction, saying, “By combining Warner Bros.’ incredible library of shows and movies, from timeless classics like The Wizard of Oz and global franchises to modern favourites, with our own streaming reach, we aim to deliver more of what audiences love, everywhere.”

This highlights Netflix’s vision to expand both the quantity and quality of accessible content for global audiences, including Africa, and points to a potentially transformative moment in the continent’s media consumption landscape.