Paramount+ and HBO Max are set to merge to offer a broader mix of genres and content to a wider audience. After an investor call led by David Ellison (CEO of Paramount), where the announcement was discussed, many users have been wondering what this merger will look like and how it may affect subscriptions.

If you’re also curious about the upcoming changes, read on to learn:

  • What is the Paramount+ and HBO Max merger?
  • How much will the combined Paramount+ and HBO Max service cost?
  • What to watch on Paramount+ and HBO Max after the merger?

What Is the Paramount+ And HBO Max Merger?

The Paramount+ & HBO Max integration is set to complete sometime in late 2026; however, it is still unclear if HBO will become fully integrated into Paramount+ or remain branded as HBO Max. Paramount’s CEO, David Ellison, has expressed great admiration for the content currently being created under HBO's creative directors, which might be an indication of a fully autonomous HBO in the future.

Paramount is currently underway to consolidate three of its streaming platforms: Paramount+, Showtime, and Pluto TV. This consolidation is expected to launch in the mid of 2026, after which, the HBO move may be worked on or launched.

This merger is expected to increase Paramount’s direct-to-consumer subscriptions up to 200 million, stacking the platform right under the streaming giant Netflix in a better position for competition.

How Much Will the Paramount+ and HBO Max Merger Cost?

Currently, the ad-free subscription for Paramount+ is $13.99/mo, and the same subscription for HBO starts at $18.49/mo. Since the merger is at the initial stages, there has not been an announcement on how much a joint subscription would be. These details may soon begin to reveal themselves as the consolidation proceeds.

Did you know? If you’re an Optimum Internet customer, you can get HBO Max included with your plan at no added cost for up to 12 months.

Explore Optimum Internet Plans

What To Watch on Paramount+ and HBO Max?

If you’re thrilled following the Paramount+ & HBO Max merger, let us add to your excitement by showing you a glimpse of what your unified watchlist could look like by the end of 2026:

Top Shows on Paramount Plus:

1. South Park

★  Rating: 8.7/10  🎭  Genre: Comedy/Sitcom

2. Tulsa King

★  Rating: 7.9/10  🎭  Genre: Crime Drama

3. Landman

★  Rating: 8.2/10  🎭  Genre: Western Drama

4. 1932

★  Rating: 8.3/10  🎭  Genre: Crime

Top Shows on HBO Max:

1. Succession

★  Rating: 8.8/10  🎭  Genre: Dark Comedy

2. House of Dragon

★  Rating: 8.3/10  🎭  Genre: Fantasy

3. The White Lotus

★  Rating: 8/10  🎭  Genre: Dark Comedy

4. The Sopranos

★  Rating: 9.2/10  🎭  Genre: Psychological drama

If you haven’t already, now is a great time to create a watchlist to make the most out of this merger. If you’re already subscribed to one or both platforms, you can look forward to an even broader selection of content in one place.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who did HBO Max merge with?
HBO Max is set to merge with Paramount+ later in 2026, with content on both platforms being accessible to customers.

What will be the HBO Max Paramount+ combination price?
The combined price for HBO Max and Paramount+ has yet to be decided once the merger is formalized. The individual prices for each service may be considered when finalizing the subscription post-merger.

How much is HBO Max vs. Paramount+?
Paramount+ costs $13.99/mo., while HBO starts at $18.49/mo., however, their combined price is yet to be decided.