Warner Bros. Discovery

Back to Hogwarts program celebrates Harry Potter anniversary

Warner Bros. Discovery announced a global "Back to Hogwarts" initiative slated for 2026 to mark the 25th anniversary of the original Harry Potter film. The centerpiece will be a week‑long theatrical re‑release of the first movie on September 1, accompanied by live fan events in North America, Europe, Asia and Latin America. The campaign also promises new footage from the upcoming HBO Original series, giving audiences an early look at the next chapter of the wizarding world. Organizers say the celebration aims to unite longtime fans while introducing the franchise to a new generation through both cinema and streaming experiences.

Variety

U.S. judge orders two‑week hold on Paramount‑Warner merger

A federal judge in New York has issued a temporary injunction that halts the proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery by Paramount Global for an additional two weeks. The pause follows legal challenges filed by several U.S. states alleging that the deal could violate antitrust laws and reduce competition in the media market. The court’s order gives regulators more time to review the merger’s potential impact on consumers, advertising rates, and content distribution. Both companies have said they will continue to cooperate with authorities while the case proceeds.

ScreenDaily

War for Westeros delayed until early 2027

Developer Playside announced that the real-time strategy title War for Westeros, set in the Game of Thrones universe, will now launch in early 2027 instead of its original 2026 window. The delay is intended to give the team additional time to refine gameplay and meet quality expectations for both RTS enthusiasts and fans of the franchise. War for Westeros will let players command houses such as Stark, Targaryen, Lannister, or even the Night King in single‑player and multiplayer modes, aiming to capture the feel of the television series. The game remains part of Warner Bros. Discovery's core gaming slate alongside Harry Potter, Mortal Kombat and DC titles.

GameSpot

Lawyers Debate Blockbuster Definition in Paramount Merger Hearing

During a Friday court hearing, attorneys for Paramount Pictures and a coalition of state attorneys general clashed over what qualifies as a blockbuster film and the timeline for advancing an antitrust challenge to Paramount's proposed merger with Warner Bros. Discovery. The debate highlighted differing views on revenue thresholds and market impact, influencing how quickly regulators may move forward with the case.

Deadline