Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleJosh MarcusThursday 16 April 2026 02:26 BSTHBO Max & Paramount+ to combineMedia executive David Ellison is reportedly hosting a dinner in Washington next week honoring Donald Trump, whose administration is currently reviewing Ellison's $111 billion bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery.The proposed merger between Paramount Skydance, Ellison's company, and Warner Bros. Discovery is awaiting approval from federal regulators and shareholders, with a vote scheduled for April 23.Over 1,000 prominent Hollywood figures have publicly opposed the merger, warning it would reduce competition, jobs and consumer choice in the film industry.The Ellison family has significant ties to the Trump administration, including previous merger approvals, the installation of a “Trump-friendly” editor at CBS News, and Oracle's involvement in TikTok and AI infrastructure deals.Despite concerns about potential influence, a Justice Department official has stated that the idea of politicized enforcement in merger reviews is “ludicrous.”In fullParamount boss David Ellison to host dinner honoring Trump while awaiting federal approval to buy CNN: reportThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in