Netflix Warner Bros deal: ‘Unreplied texts’; what made Paramount go for hostile take over

Paramount’s CEO David Ellison made extensive personal overtures, including private dinners and text messages, to WBD’s David Zaslav for a potential merger. Despite an improved all-cash offer and even a co-CEO proposal, Paramount’s bid was rejected. Ellison expressed deep respect and a desire for partnership, but WBD proceeded with a Netflix deal, prompting Paramount’s hostile takeover announcement.