(Preview) Netflix Opportunities and Anxieties, Merger Hurdles to Come, Hollywood’s Endgame and What Comes Next

In this episode of Sharp Tech, Andrew Sharp and Ben Thompson delve into the potential Netflix and Warner Brothers merger, sparked by a listener's email expressing anticipation for Ben's take on the deal. They discuss Netflix's position in the market, particularly in relation to YouTube's growing share of TV viewership and its structural advantages in content acquisition. Ben argues that Netflix may be feeling threatened by YouTube's dominance, while Andrew questions whether the merger would provide insulation from this disruption. They explore the changing landscape of media consumption, the disposability of content, and the challenges Netflix faces in creating enduring, rewatchable content akin to comfort food TV shows like Seinfeld and Friends. They also touch on the struggles Netflix has had with original content and the shift in competition towards time and attention.