Despite the recent announcement of a merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery, HBO Max is still set to launch in the U.K. on March 26th, according to a source. This launch is particularly significant as it marks the last of the major studio streamers to enter the U.K. market. The streaming platform has been in the works for some time, with plans to bring over talent associated with some of its biggest shows and key executives, such as the president of global streaming at Warner Bros. Discovery, JB Perrette, and HBO chief Casey Bloys. However, the merger between Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery could potentially impact the future of HBO Max as a standalone platform. Among the deals struck is a Sky streamer bundling deal, which will include HBO Max. The launch of HBO Max in the U.K. will feature a range of original series, including Richard Gadd's 'Half Man', set to launch later this year, and the upcoming 'Harry Potter' series, currently in the middle of shooting its first season for release next year. Last month, Perrette called the series' launch 'the streaming event of the decade'. Other shows launching on HBO Max in the U.K. exclusively are 'The Pitt' and all three seasons of 'Euphoria' (the third season will be shared with Sky under a previous content sharing deal). According to Ellison, HBO the brand will continue to 'operate with independence' despite the merging of the platforms.
