Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos is expected at the White House Thursday, where discussions are set to center on the company’s media acquisition bid and President Trump’s call for board member Susan Rice to be dismissed.
Trump warned on Truth Social that Netflix will “pay the consequences” if Rice, a former Biden adviser and former National Security Adviser for Obama, remains on the board. Rice said on a podcast last week that corporations and media outlets that “bent the knee” to Trump could face repercussions if Democrats return to power.
The White House visit coincides with Paramount increasing its bid to $31 per share, up from $30, a move that could top Netflix’s existing offer. If Paramount is chosen, Netflix would have four business days to submit a higher bid.
The timing of the proposals comes as the Department of Justice Antitrust Division probes the company’s market power and dealmaking practices. Sarandos previously met privately with President Trump in November, according to a person familiar with the meeting.
