David Zaslav’s Future in Flux as Netflix and Paramount Vie for Warner Bros. Discovery

Los Angeles — David Zaslav’s future at Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) is uncertain as Netflix and Paramount battle for control of the company. Weeks after Paramount’s David Ellison offered Zaslav a co-CEO role, Netflix swooped in with an $83 billion deal, followed by Ellison’s $108 billion hostile bid.

Zaslav will stay on as WBD’s CEO until the company splits in 2026, but his long-term role is unclear. Paramount’s offer, backed by foreign investors, could raise regulatory concerns, while Netflix remains confident. Despite his hefty compensation — $50 million in 2024, with stock options worth up to $425 million — Zaslav’s leadership is under fire.

What’s Next for Zaslav?

Sources say Zaslav’s future beyond WBD is uncertain, but he may stay in the industry, potentially setting up his own venture or moving into philanthropy. Whoever wins the bidding war, Zaslav is expected to remain a significant figure in Hollywood.