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Netflix–Warner Bros. Merger + Key Industry Shifts + Dec 18 Q&A

By Abigail Hardin, December 08, 2025

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Happy December, UTD!

First and foremost, from all of us at UTDA, I hope you had a warm and joyful Thanksgiving — full of rest, laughter, and deep connection. And with last week's full moon marking the completion of a nine-year cycle, many of us may be feeling a sense of closure, illumination, or readiness for what comes next. I’m deeply grateful for your presence in this community and for the artistry, courage, and openness you bring to this industry every day.

In the Spirit of Giving — Join Us for Our Year-End Actor Industry Q&A

As we move through the holidays, this season invites generosity — not only in what we give others, but in how we invest in our own growth. In that spirit, I’m thrilled to invite you to our Actor Industry Q&A on December 18th, a live Zoom session designed to help you close the year with clarity and begin 2026 with intention.

You are invited to ask Annie & myself one focused question that will help you move forward in your career. There’s no lecture and no presentation — just real, candid industry insight in response to your needs. Bring the one question that matters most to you right now — whether it’s about representation, branding, career strategy, self-submissions, reels, or navigating the current landscape — and we’ll dig in together. It’s a collaborative, supportive room to get clarity before stepping into the new year.

Actor Industry Q&A: Prepare for the 2026 Winter Season

RSVP Free on Eventbrite

What’s New on the Blog

We’ve published several powerful, actionable pieces this month:

Each post is designed to meet you where you are — whether you’re rebuilding, expanding, or redefining your path.

Industry Flash — Netflix & Warner Bros. Merger

In major entertainment news last Friday, Netflix has agreed to acquire the studio and streaming business of Warner Bros. Discovery, including HBO and Warner Bros. Television. The deal, valued around $82.7B (~$72B equity), marks one of the largest consolidations in recent media history.

What actors should note:

  • Consolidation = fewer but more powerful content buyers.
  • Production pipelines and greenlight strategies may shift.
  • Staying adaptable, informed, and relationship-centered will be key in 2026.

We’ll continue tracking how this merger impacts hiring patterns, production volume, and the evolving casting ecosystem.

A Personal Note as We Close the Year

This time of year naturally invites reflection. Not the pressure-filled version of “What haven’t I achieved?” but a gentler, more truthful inventory: Where have I grown? What have I learned? What am I ready to release?

The full moon’s message of completion reminds us that endings are not failures — they’re space-makers. They clear the path for the next chapter, the next opportunity, the next version of ourselves as artists and professionals.

As we move into 2026, I hope you step forward with a renewed sense of ownership over your journey. Your voice, your instincts, and your artistry matter. And whether this season brings auditions, bookings, rest, creative sparks, or simply the desire to begin again, know that UTDA is here to support and uplift you every step of the way.

With warmth and gratitude,

Warner Bros. / Netflix Merger
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