Bill Maher Warns New Skydance Bosses Over Trump Tweets
Comedian Bill Maher tells new Skydance owners not to believe Donald Trump's insults regarding his ratings following the massive Paramount merger.
Comedian and commentator Bill Maher has sent a humorous yet pointed message to the incoming leadership of his network following the massive $110 billion merger between Paramount and Warner Bros Discovery. Speaking on his show, Real Time with Bill Maher, the veteran host addressed the shifting ownership of HBO and the recent social media attacks from former US President Donald Trump.
A New Owner for Maher's 'Ass"
During his opening monologue on Friday, Maher lightheartedly addressed the complex corporate restructuring that is currently reshaping the media landscape. As the merger moves toward completion, the ownership structure of his program has become significantly more complicated.
"The merger went through. Paramount now owns Warner Discovery, which owns HBO, which owns my ass," Maher joked, acknowledging the new corporate hierarchy that will oversee his content.
Responding to Trump's Rating Attacks
Maher did not miss the opportunity to address recent criticisms leveled against him by Donald Trump. The former President had taken to social media over the weekend to mock the comedian's viewership numbers.
"Whoever owns me now, don’t believe what Trump is tweeting about me," Maher told his audience. He specifically referenced Trump's recent claims regarding his show's performance, noting, "Did you see what he said about me this weekend? He said my ratings are so low, ‘it’s just sad.’"
Despite the public jab, Maher appeared unfazed by the political leader's insults. He offered a direct rebuttal to the former President, stating that such comments carry little weight with him.
"You know what, Mr. President? Your insults don’t bother me. Make up whatever shit you want about me, just don’t mention I went to Cornell," Maher quipped, referencing his Ivy League education.
The $110 Billion Skydance Era
The comments come at a pivotal moment for the entertainment industry. The massive deal between Paramount and Warner Bros Discovery is nearing its final stages after a US judge approved a settlement with 12 states that had raised antitrust concerns. This legal clearance has effectively paved the way for the merger to close.
Key details regarding the new corporate structure include:
- The New Name: CEO David Ellison confirmed that the combined entity will operate under the name Skydance.
- Brand Identity: While the parent company changes, both the Paramount and Warner Bros brands are expected to maintain their individual identities.
- The Scale: The deal is valued at approximately $110 billion, representing one of the most significant shifts in media ownership in recent years.