Paramount-WBD Merger Paused Until March 2027 Trial

NJ antitrust suit halts merger; UK approved but WGA and state AG lawsuits continue. Paramount threatening to move out of California. Ticking fee and $7B termination fee add urgency. Affects Comedy Central and HBO Max comedy slates. Despite pause, HBO Max continues to renew comedies like 'Stuart Fails to Save the Universe' S2. Paramount wants Jon Stewart back at The Daily Show beyond 2026. Paramount+ head Jane Wiseman explicitly says comedies are not part of their strategy. TCA Awards: Widow's Bay (Apple TV+) wins 3 awards; Heated Rivalry (HBO Max) wins Program of the Year; In Living Color Heritage Award. Widow's Bay cast shared behind-the-scenes flubs and Season 2 hopes.