Netflix CEO Says He Won’t Shorten Theatrical Releases Following Warner Bros. Acquisition

As whispers swirled about a potential merger between Netflix and Warner Bros., the executive leadership moved to quell the notion that theatrical release timelines would be altered. In a candid discussion with a prominent industry publication, the message was clear: the plan is to preserve the current approach to theatrical distribution even as talks progress, with a long-standing 45-day window feeding into the rollout strategy.

Upon closing the deal, Netflix would maintain a robust theatrical-distribution framework that already drives billions in box-office revenue. The plan is to keep that engine operating much as it does today, with the 45-day period typically observed before films arrive on streaming or other platforms. The goal, according to the leadership, is to stay competitive in theaters and to aim for strong performances during opening weekends and beyond.

The proposed transaction would fold Warner Bros.’ film and television studios, HBO Max, and HBO into Netflix’s portfolio, in a deal valued at roughly $82.7 billion. This has sparked widespread debate about the potential impact on movie theaters, and rumors circulated that a shortened window—perhaps down to about 17 days—could be on the table in certain scenarios. The leadership acknowledged the chatter but stressed that it did not reflect a deliberate shift away from traditional release patterns.

When confronted with the reaction from fans and analysts, the executive anticipated some blowback. He noted that much of the discussion sounded louder than it was representative, and that questions about Netflix’s real intent in the theatrical space had been left hanging due to a lack of explicit commentary beforehand.

In a related discussion, he revisited earlier remarks about theaters outside major metropolitan areas and acknowledged that industry dynamics have evolved. The response underscored a broader consideration of how audiences access films across regions and what role traditional cinema should play in a changing distribution landscape.