Mark Ruffalo Questions James Cameron’s Disapproval of Netflix-Warner Bros. Deal, Support of Paramount

Hollywood Reporter

by McKinley Franklin

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Mark Ruffalo has raised questions about James Cameron’s stance on the Netflix-Warner Bros. Discovery deal, calling for clarity on whether the filmmaker’s concerns extend to Paramount’s potential acquisition as well. In a statement shared on Threads, Ruffalo suggested that Cameron’s opposition to Netflix acquiring Warner Bros. might be selective, asking if he is also against the monopolization that a Paramount takeover would create or if it’s solely aimed at Netflix. Cameron had previously expressed concerns in a letter to Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah), arguing that Netflix’s business model conflicts with theatrical film production and exhibition, which employs hundreds of thousands of Americans. Cameron argued that Netflix’s approach directly opposes the theatrical release model, which is central to Warner Bros.’s identity as one of the last major movie studios. In response, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos criticized Cameron for being part of a disinformation campaign orchestrated by Paramount, which has been opposing the deal for months. Sarandos denied claims that Netflix plans to shorten theatrical windows or abandon theaters, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining 45-day theatrical releases as part of the deal’s conditions. The debate highlights broader tensions in the film industry between streaming platforms and traditional studios over the future of movie distribution. Ruffalo’s intervention underscores the growing scrutiny of mergers and monopolization concerns, particularly as major players like Paramount and Netflix navigate the evolving landscape of content delivery. The outcome of these deals could have significant implications for filmmakers, theater owners, and audiences alike, making this a critical issue for the entertainment community to address.

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Originally published on Hollywood Reporter on 2/22/2026