From The Hollywood Reporter · Tony Maglio · · 1m 10s
HBO Max and Paramount+ Merge, Discovery+ Left Behind
HBO Max and Paramount+ will merge under Skydance, but Discovery+ gets ignored in the plan.
In brief
HBO Max and Paramount+ will merge under Skydance, but Discovery+ gets ignored in the plan. HBO Max and Paramount+ will merge into one streaming service under Skydance, but Discovery+ is overlooked despite being profitable and having loyal viewers. Originally reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
Skydance Unveils Streaming Plan
On Tuesday, Skydance chairman and CEO David Ellison informed reporters he plans to combine HBO Max and Paramount+ into one streaming app.
Discovery+ Not Mentioned
The merger event did not include the word 'Discovery' even when discussing Warner Bros. Discovery’s assets.
Discovery+ Subscribers
As of August 2026, Discovery+ has 4.9 million paying U.S. subscribers, with half using ad-supported plans.
Discovery+ Profitability
Discovery+ is profitable, possibly earning low nine figures, with minimal expenses due to no original programming.
WBD CFO on Discovery+
WBD CFO Gunnar Wiedenfels said Discovery+ remains profitable and has millions of engaged viewers despite being a low priority.
Discovery+ Future Uncertain
Discovery+ may stay active but is unlikely to be a focus under Skydance’s $80 billion debt-driven strategy.
Discovery+ Still Relevant
Discovery+ retains value through loyal viewers and international opportunities despite being overlooked.
The essence
HBO Max and Paramount+ will merge into one streaming service under Skydance, but Discovery+ is overlooked despite being profitable and having loyal viewers.
