John Oliver Calls Merger Talks ‘Total Denial’ as HBO Deal Stalls

In a recent interview, HBO host John Oliver described his reaction to the stalled Warner Bros. Discovery acquisition by Skydance as "total denial," emphasizing his lack of control over the outcome. A federal judge paused the $110 billion transaction after 12 state attorneys general claimed it would diminish industry competition.

Oliver, a 23-time Emmy winner, said the program will simply proceed as if nothing is happening and admitted he cannot forecast the merger's fate. He also confirmed a 12-month contract extension that keeps "Last Week Tonight" on air until the end of 2027. The prospective buyer, billionaire David Ellison, secured the bid after Netflix declined a higher $111 billion offer and has hosted events honoring President Trump. Despite the uncertainty, Oliver continues to mock the prospective owners on his show.