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The Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery merger drew fresh commentary this week after reports the deal has been approved and is tentatively set to close soon. Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos, speaking at the Bloomberg Screentime conference, downplayed any competitive threat the combined company might pose to Netflix, while addressing speculation about courting former HBO executive Casey Bloys. Meanwhile actor Mark Ruffalo renewed his public criticism of the merger, arguing it will 'stifle creativity,' 'weaken free speech,' and cost jobs, and that it 'should never have been approved.' The dueling reactions underscore ongoing industry anxiety about consolidation among major studios and streamers.