Warner Bros. Discovery Announces Major Split: Streaming & Studios Set to Separate from Global Networks

Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) is making a big change. The company will split into two separate entities: Streaming & Studios and Global Networks.

David Zaslav will lead the Streaming & Studios division. This unit will include Warner Bros. Television, HBO, and DC Studios, among others. Gunnar Wiedenfels will become the President and CEO of Global Networks, which will feature brands like CNN and TNT Sports.

WBD plans to make this split in a way that won’t impact U.S. federal taxes. After the separation, both companies will continue to work together to ensure a smooth transition.

Zaslav expressed excitement about this new chapter. He emphasized that this change will allow both companies to focus better and adapt to the fast-changing media world.

This trend isn’t unique to WBD. Other legacy media companies are also reorganizing. For instance, Lionsgate recently separated from Starz, and Comcast has divided its cable networks into a new company called Versant.

According to recent industry research, over 54% of U.S. households now subscribe to at least one streaming service. This shift is driving media companies to adapt quickly to new consumer behaviors. The goal is to stay relevant in an ever-competitive market.

As the media landscape evolves, companies like WBD will need to stay agile. Their separation reflects a broader trend of focusing on specialization. With more viewers turning to streaming, strengthening these divisions could help both companies capture a larger share of the market.

For a deeper dive into this trend, you can explore reports from sources like PwC’s Global Entertainment & Media Outlook.

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David Zaslav,warner bros. discovery