entertainment news media consolidation HBO Max Paramount Warner Bros. merger John Oliver Last Week Tonight

Warner Bros. shareholders approved the $110 billion merger with Paramount last week. On Sunday night, John Oliver, host of Last Week Tonight, delivered a two-word reaction to the news during his show’s opening monologue.

Oliver briefly addressed the week’s biggest headlines before turning to the merger. “Warner Bros. shareholders approved Paramount’s takeover, and, hoo boy!” he said.

The late-night host did not elaborate further on his thoughts about the decision. However, Oliver has been vocal about his disapproval in previous episodes. When Paramount first emerged as a potential buyer, his reaction was far from subtle.

“F–k s–t!” he bellowed. “F–k f–king s–t! F–king s–t, f–k- it! OK, it was fun while it lasted, guys! Whatever happens next, let me say now it has been the honor of my life to age like a haunted painting before your very eyes.”

After Paramount was confirmed as the winning bidder, Oliver’s tone in his Last Week Tonight monologue was calmer but no less critical.

“It turns out we might be getting a new business daddy,” he said. “Yeah, not great news. In fact, if I may quote anyone who’s ever accidentally sat on their Roku remote. Oh s–t, I’m in Paramount now. How the f–k do I get out of this?”

The future of Last Week Tonight under the ownership of the Ellison family remains uncertain. Oliver has joked that he would accept cancellation under one condition.

“Last Week Tonight” is currently available for streaming on HBO Max.

Source: The Wrap
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