George Clooney has publicly defended Mark Ruffalo's right to criticise the proposed $111bn Paramount takeover of Warner Bros Discovery. Speaking in Venice, Clooney stated his support for Ruffalo's "ability to speak freely" regarding the deal.
Clooney also voiced his own concerns about the proposed merger, highlighting the potential for job losses when large companies consolidate. He said, "I always worry whenever big companies are consolidating because it means a lot of people are going to lose their jobs."
Ruffalo has been a vocal opponent of the deal, criticising its potential impact on Hollywood and the Ellison family behind Paramount. His comments, which included linking Oracle's business ties to the Israeli military, prompted accusations of antisemitism from Paramount. Ruffalo has rejected these claims, and over 170 Jewish artists, academics, and public figures have signed an open letter defending him.
Clooney is in Venice to receive the festival's Golden Lion for lifetime achievement, an award he will accept on Wednesday evening.