HBO Max's time in the UK could be short-lived. The streaming service will eventually be folded into Paramount+ to create one mega streaming platform, after just launching in the UK today.
Paramount CEO David Ellison explained during an investor call: "We do plan to put the two services together, which today gives us a little over 200 million direct-to-consumer subscribers. We think that really positions us to compete with the leaders in the space."
The deal, worth a total of $110 billion, means some of your favourite channels and streaming services will soon sit under the same roof in the UK. This includes HBO Max, Paramount+, Channel 5, Quest, MTV, TLC, Comedy Central, and CNN International, all joining forces.
Although Mr Ellison has promised that HBO will "operate with independence" and continue under the CEO of HBO, Casey Bloys.
"Our viewpoint is HBO should stay HBO. They built a phenomenal brand. They are a leader in the space, and we just want them to continue doing more of it. By bringing the platforms together, all of our content will be able to reach even a broader audience than we can do standalone," Mr Ellison said.
HBO Max is a Netflix rival that brings together hit shows, documentaries, and films from the much-loved US network behind the likes of The Last of Us, Game of Thrones, Sex And The City, and many more
| WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY PRESS OFFICEHowever, the deal is contingent on the approval from both the US and European regulators. Reviews are taking place to ensure that the merger doesn't violate antitrust laws or stifle competition.
If approved, it has not been made clear whether HBO Max will be displayed as its own standalone hub, either, like Hulu is on Disney+.
On the other hand, Mr Ellison confirmed that Paramount plans to combine its three existing services — Paramount+, Pluto TV, and Showtime. This is expected to be completed later this year.
As for when the consolidation could take place for HBO Max, it's speculated that it won't occur until late 2026 — possibly early 2027.
Paramount+ first released in the UK in 2022, featuring shows like Yellowstone, Dexter, NCIS, and more
| PEXELSIf you're a TNT Sports subscriber who just moved over from Discovery+ to HBO Max, you might face yet another switch within the next 18 months.
For instance, Paramount secured the UK rights to broadcast most UEFA Men's Champions League matches back in November 2025, with coverage set to begin in mid-2027.
The original plan was to show these games on Paramount+, but the merger could change things. Since Warner Bros. Discovery's stake in TNT Sports will transfer to Paramount, the Champions League could actually stay put on TNT Sports instead.
Regulators will need to examine this aspect of the deal as well. Paramount doesn't currently have much live sport beyond what's shown free-to-air on Channel 5.
Speaking of Channel 5, you might see more sports popping up there in future. The channel could start showing highlights and selected live events.
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New subscription costs haven't been announced, but with the content library essentially doubling, they may rise down the line. Although it could be cheaper than paying for HBO Max and Paramount+ separately.
These two services merging could also create a stronger rival with Netflix, which has an estimated 300 to 325 million global subscribers as of early 2026.