Skydance CEO David Ellison announced plans to eventually combine HBO Max and Paramount+ into a single streaming service following an initial period of bundling.
Key facts
- •David Ellison confirmed the long-term plan to combine HBO Max and Paramount+ into a single service.
- •The services will initially operate separately with potential bundling options in the short term.
- •The combined company reports having over 200 million direct-to-consumer subscribers.
- •Skydance aims to use AI technology to accelerate the integration of the streaming platforms' tech stacks.
- •HBO is expected to maintain its brand independence within the new organizational structure.
Skydance Chairman and CEO David Ellison announced on Tuesday that the company intends to merge HBO Max and Paramount+ into one streaming platform. Speaking at a press event marking the first day of operations for the newly combined entity, Ellison stated that the services will operate separately in the immediate term while being offered as a bundle. He noted that the long-term goal is a full integration of the two platforms.
Integration Strategy and Technology
Ellison indicated that advancements in AI technology may allow the company to accelerate the process of merging the underlying tech stacks of the two services. While he did not provide specific details on pricing or consumer adoption strategies, he emphasized that the centralization of technology is a priority. Skydance previously integrated the tech stacks for Paramount+, BET+, and Pluto TV following its takeover of Paramount in August 2025.
Subscriber Scale and Brand Independence
The combined entity currently reports a total of more than 200 million direct-to-consumer subscribers. Ellison stated that this scale will allow the company to compete with major industry players like Netflix, Disney, and Amazon. Despite the planned merger, Ellison previously affirmed that the HBO brand will continue to operate with independence, noting that Casey Bloys and his team will maintain their current approach to content.
Timeline
- August 2025Skydance completed its takeover of Paramount.
- March 2026David Ellison signaled to investors the plan to combine the streaming services.
- TuesdayDavid Ellison confirmed the long-term merger plan during a press conference.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Hollywood Reporter, Deadline.
