Paramount+ and HBO Max to merge into single streaming platform

Paramount Skydance has announced plans to combine Paramount+ and HBO Max into a single streaming service following the completion of the merger between Paramount Global and Warner Bros Discovery (WBD).

Speaking during an investor call outlining the merger, Paramount CEO David Ellison said the unified platform would bring together more than 200 million direct-to-consumer subscribers, strengthening the company’s ability to compete with major players in the streaming market.

Ellison noted that Paramount is already in the process of consolidating its existing streaming services under a single technological infrastructure and plans to adopt a similar strategy for the combined platform. He said the merged offering, backed by an extensive content library and enhanced technology capabilities, would position the company to rival the largest global streaming services.

While specific details about how the new service will be structured remain unclear, HBO Max will exist as a standalone section within the platform or be fully integrated. Ellison emphasised that HBO as a brand will retain operational independence.

He praised HBO’s leadership under Casey Bloys, stating that the brand should continue to function autonomously to maintain its creative identity. According to Ellison, Paramount’s leadership believes HBO’s strength lies in its established reputation and programming excellence, and intends to allow it to continue operating without heavy corporate oversight.

The merger follows a competitive bidding process. Netflix had previously secured a deal to acquire Warner Bros Discovery’s studio and streaming operations. However, Paramount later revised its proposal to acquire the entire WBD business, including its cable assets. After increasing its offer, Paramount’s bid was accepted by WBD’s board, paving the way for the formal merger announcement.

The combined entity aims to create a more robust streaming competitor while preserving the distinct identity of HBO within the new structure.