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Should Apple Acquire Paramount? Yes! Here’s why…
Apple’s Ascent: Scaling the Streaming Summit and Preserving Film Legacy
Update: Since the time of writing, Apollo Global offered $11 Billion to buy Paramount Film & TV Studios, BUT not CBS, Paramount+: Report.
Update 2: Since the time of writing, Paramount Global Debt Cut to Junk Status by S&P Global: Report.
How Apple Could Save Paramount Pictures and CBS Television
In the ever-evolving landscape of media mergers and acquisitions, Paramount Global stands as a coveted gem. Yet, among the suitors vying for its legacy, one notable absentee looms large: Apple. The tech giant, with its unparalleled success, could hold the key to preserving Paramount’s storied heritage. Buckle up as we explore why Apple’s climb to Paramount’s peaks might just redefine the entertainment industry.
Apple has never been in the business of owning things, but hear me out, Apple CEO Tim Cook has always been a Supply Chain and Logistics leader and while Paramount Global is far too messy for a streamlined outfit like Apple, it’s the combined Paramount / CBS library of content and their film studios that would provide a heck of a lot of streaming content to feed the growing Apple Ecosystem.
The Paramount Proposition: A Match Made in Streaming Heaven
1. Content Synergy: A Creative Collision of Titans
Apple’s unwavering commitment to high-quality, original content aligns seamlessly with Paramount’s rich catalog of iconic films and TV shows. Picture this: Apple’s unrivaled success meets Paramount’s extensive assets, including beloved franchises like Star Trek, Mission Impossible, and Top Gun. The result? A streaming powerhouse that caters to a broader audience and sets new standards for excellence.
2. Strengthening the Streaming Ecosystem: A Winning Combo
While Paramount+ boasts 63 million subscribers, it still trails behind streaming giants like Netflix and Disney+. Enter Apple, with its deep pockets and strategic vision. Imagine a combined AppleTV+ / Paramount+ that soars to new heights, fueled by exclusive content from Paramount’s vault. This isn’t just about streaming; it’s about reshaping the way we consume entertainment.
3. Reviving Underserved IPs: Breathing New Life into Classics
Paramount’s timeless IPs have weathered storms, but they’re ripe for revival. Apple’s track record of nurturing original content could inject fresh energy into beloved franchises. Think reimagined Top Gun sequels, innovative Mission Impossible takes, and bold Star Trek adventures. The potential? Limitless.
4. Avoiding Industry Pitfalls: Hollywood Magic Preserved
Warner Bros. Discovery may be a contender, but consolidation isn’t always a win-win. Apple’s independent approach ensures that Paramount’s IPs won’t fade into obscurity. Hollywood’s magic deserves preservation, not dilution.
5. Beyond Streaming: Paramount’s Linear TV Assets
Paramount Global’s linear TV properties – CBS, broadcast stations, and cable networks – offer additional value. Apple could redefine cross-platform content consumption by leveraging Paramount’s legacy IP. It’s not just about streaming; it’s about a holistic entertainment experience.
Should Apple Acquire Paramount? A Somewhat Strategic Analysis
Rewind to 2018: AppleTV+ was on the horizon, and Paramount Global was at a low ebb. I posited then, and maintain now, that Paramount’s vast catalog, studios, and valuable IP would complement Apple perfectly. Imagine the creative powerhouse that could emerge by harnessing Paramount’s underutilized gems.
While Warner Bros. Discovery looms, industry consolidation isn’t always the answer. Let’s delve into specifics:
a. Paramount Global’s Assets: From film studios to streaming services, Paramount’s portfolio is rich and diverse.
b. Potential Buyers: Skydance Media, Warner Bros. Discovery and Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group are in the mix.
c. Challenges and Roadblocks: Regulation, Debt, market value and impending carriage agreements.Apple’s Strategic Advantage: A Symphony of Content and Innovation
1. Content Synergy: Apple’s commitment to quality storytelling meets Paramount’s iconic IPs. Star Trek, Top Gun, Mission Impossible, etc… could thrive under Apple’s creative umbrella.
2. Brand Reputation: Apple’s reputation for excellence aligns with Paramount’s legacy. Together, they could elevate streaming services.
3. Global Reach: Paramount’s global presence complements Apple’s ambitions. International markets beckon.
4. Intellectual Property: Paramount’s IPs are a treasure trove waiting to be unlocked.
5. Cultural Impact: Apple revitalizing beloved franchises? That’s cultural impact in action.In Summary: A Leap of Imagination
Based on Apple’s history, it is not likely to purchase Paramount Global for a host of reasons that I briefly touched on, but didn’t delve too deeply into, mainly because it’s far too complicated to discuss in a short read. Just do a Wikipedia search of Paramount’s assets and you’ll see what I mean. Apple would be more interested in Paramount’s IP and perhaps its studios, where Apple’s original programming is mostly filmed at, whereas, most of Paramount’s hard assets and networks, which are more likely to be sought after and will most likely be carved-up by Skydance CEO David Ellison & Warner Brothers Discovery CEO David Zaslav, when they, not Apple CEO Tim Cook, who are the ones most likely to acquire Paramount for its parts.
Apple’s acquisition of Paramount wouldn’t be just business; it’s about storytelling, creativity, and preserving cultural touchstones. If Apple takes the leap, we might witness a new era of entertainment, where technology and artistry converge. Apple’s acquisition of Paramount would reshape the entertainment landscape. Whether it happens, remains a tantalizing question in the world of the media business. Either way, brace yourselves – the entertainment landscape is about to shift again and most likely, it won’t be in the best interest of the art, nor the fans of classic Hollywood and new, original programming.
I look forward to your JoulePepper rating of my JouleView about, “Should Apple Acquire Paramount? Scaling the Streaming Summit & Preserving Film Legacy” and I’d love to read your comments in the JouleStream section, below. Let’s make it a discussion!
Based on my insights around the entertainment industry, I feel Apple should acquire Paramount’s IP but not the entire company. While the potential for this actually happening, is slim to none, I give the idea a, 4 out of 5 JoulePeppers – it’s Hot!
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Sources:
(1) Paramount and Apple Shares Rise After Report of Talks to Bundle …. https://www.investopedia.com/paramount-and-apple-shares-rise-after-report-of-talks-to-bundle-streaming-services-8409815.
(2) Apple, Paramount streaming bundle report boosts media stocks – CNBC. https://www.cnbc.com/2023/12/01/apple-paramount-streaming-bundle-report-boosts-media-stocks.html.
(3) Report: Apple in talks to offer combined streaming bundle of Apple TV+ …. Â https://9to5mac.com/2023/12/01/apple-tv-bundle-paramount-deal/.
(4) Are Apple & Paramount Teaming Up? Potential Bundle Deal Could … – MSN. https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/news/are-apple-paramount-teaming-up-potential-bundle-deal-could-shake-up-streaming-wars/ar-AA1kQMUE.
(5) Paramount Stock Up: Talks On To Bundle Paramount+, Apple TV+ – Report. https://deadline.com/2023/12/paramount-global-streaming-bundle-paramount-appletv-apple-1235648682/.
(6) A Few Companies Are Interested In Acquiring Paramount Global – Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/bradadgate/2024/02/15/a-few-companies-are-interested-in-acquiring-paramount-global/?sh=51c5b9865de8.
(7) Paramount Global Sells Stake in Viacom18 for $517M – The Hollywood Reporter. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/paramount-global-sells-stake-in-viacom18-1235851971/Image By: Bing Copilot Designer. My prompt was, “Draw an image, combining the idea of the company Apple, owner of AppleTV+, Apple Studios and Apple Films acquiring the company, film studios and IP of Paramount, Paramount Pictures, Paramount+ and CBS Television. Include the iconic Paramount Mountain Peak and the Apple Logo in your design.”
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