Regal CEO backs Paramount merger with Warner Bros

Another big name picks a side

Regal chief Eduardo Acuna went public with his blessing on Wednesday, joining AMC's Adam Aron in backing the deal.

The endorsement matters because a lawsuit filed on 13 July by 12 states, led by California attorney general Rob Bonta, is fighting the tie-up as an antitrust battle over the fragile theatrical market.

The states argue a merged "WarnerMount" would control 30% of $100 million-plus box-office hits, as flagged by The Hollywood Reporter. Ellison has pledged to release 30 films a year theatrically with 45-day windows.

"This year has been an important one for our industry. While there is real momentum, we need a thriving studio system to ensure that the industry has a platform from which to grow."

Eduardo Acuna, Regal Cinemas CEO

Exhibitors line up behind Ellison

Acuna said he believed "David is sincere in making these commitments", in a statement to Variety, while warning the antitrust trial "creates more uncertainty and distraction".

With the health of the UK's cinemas and the wider box office at stake, attention now turns to the courtroom fight that could decide the deal.