Damon Lindelof, the creator of Watchmen and executive producer of Lanterns, has taken a strong stance against the proposed merger of Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD). In a recent statement, Lindelof highlights the impact of this merger on the blue-collar workforce in Hollywood, which he believes will be "f*cked" as a result.
Lindelof's concern is not just about the potential loss of jobs, but also about the broader implications of such mergers. He argues that when two major studios are combined, it often leads to a reduction in the number of movies and TV shows produced, which in turn affects the livelihoods of thousands of workers, including grips, gaffers, drivers, decorators, builders, boom operators, camera teams, and caterers.
The statement comes as a response to the ongoing antitrust scrutiny of the Paramount-WBD merger by several blue state attorneys general, including California's Rob Bonta. Lindelof's involvement in the open letter opposing the merger is significant, given his history of supporting progressive candidates and causes. The letter also includes prominent figures such as Noah Wylie, David Chase, Emma Thompson, Don Cheadle, and Jane Fonda.
Lindelof's personal connection to the issue is evident in his reference to the Lanterns, a show he is involved in, and the Lantern Corps oath, which he includes in his statement. This oath, "In brightest day, in blackest night, / No evil shall escape my sight. / Let those who worship evil's might, / Beware my power: Green Lantern's light!" emphasizes his commitment to fighting against what he perceives as an evil force in the form of corporate mergers that harm workers.
The potential impact of the merger on the film and TV industry is a topic of intense debate. Democratic senators like Elizabeth Warren and Cory Booker have also expressed their opposition to the deal, with Warren calling for the breakup of "anti-democratic information conglomerates." The outcome of the midterm elections could significantly influence the fate of the merger, as the Democratic Party's performance may determine the level of resistance to the deal.
Lindelof's statement serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of corporate mergers and the importance of considering the impact on workers and the broader industry. His involvement in the open letter and his personal connection to the issue make his voice particularly influential in the ongoing debate surrounding the Paramount-WBD merger.
