Hollywood
Shraddha Kapoor hops aboard Zootopia 2 as Judy Hopps
MUMBAI: Looks like Shraddha Kapoor is ready to hop into action! JioStar, through its studio arm Star Studio18, has announced that the Hindi cinema star will voice the determined bunny cop Judy Hopps in the Hindi version of Disney’s Zootopia 2.
Known for its knack for blending Hollywood hits with Indian heart, JioStar continues to ace the localisation game. The studio’s latest move brings together a beloved global franchise and a homegrown favourite known for her infectious energy and charm.
“Judy Hopps is a character I deeply relate with, and I can totally say she is a version of me! She is full of heart, courage and never gives up, no matter how tough things get,” said Shraddha Kapoor. “Bringing her to life in Hindi has been such a joyful experience, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience this exciting new collaboration.”
A JioStar spokesperson added, “At the heart of our storytelling lies the effort to bring global stories closer to Indian audiences through voices they love and languages they connect with. Zootopia resonated deeply for its heartfelt storytelling and unforgettable characters, and with Shraddha as Judy Hopps, Zootopia 2 will only strengthen that bond.”
JioStar also unveiled a special video unit showcasing Shraddha channeling Judy’s trademark optimism, grit, and warmth, proving she’s the perfect match for the bunny who believes anyone can be anything.
With this partnership, JioStar once again champions the art of local connection, hopping straight into the hearts of Indian fans.
Hollywood
Paramount seeks FCC nod for foreign-backed $110 billion WBD deal
Gulf funds back merger as foreign stake nears 50 per cent, control stays with Ellison
NEW YORK: Paramount Global has approached the Federal Communications Commission seeking approval for foreign investments tied to its proposed $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, marking another key step in one of the biggest media deals in recent years.
According to regulatory filings made public this week, the investment backing the deal includes major Gulf sovereign funds such as the Public Investment Fund, the Qatar Investment Authority and L’imad Holding Company. Together, foreign investors are expected to hold just under 50 per cent of Paramount’s equity once the transaction is complete.
Despite the sizeable international backing, Paramount has made it clear that voting control will remain with the family of chief executive David Ellison, ensuring the company stays firmly under US control as required by broadcasting rules.
A company spokesperson described the FCC filing as routine for transactions involving foreign capital and stressed that it does not impact the closing of the deal. Under US law, any significant foreign ownership in broadcast licence holders must undergo regulatory review.
The merger itself has already cleared a major hurdle, with Warner Bros. Discovery shareholders approving the deal on 23 April. The transaction values the company at $31 per share, a 147 per cent premium to its earlier trading price, reflecting strong strategic intent behind the tie-up.
If completed, the combined entity will bring together a vast portfolio including Warner Bros. film studios, HBO Max, and networks such as CNN, TNT and Discovery Channel. The deal is currently expected to close in the third quarter of 2026.
However, scrutiny is intensifying. The US Department of Justice has issued subpoenas seeking details on the merger’s potential impact on cinema competition, streaming services and content licensing. Reviews are also anticipated in international markets, including the United Kingdom.
There is also a financial safety net built into the agreement. If regulators ultimately block the deal, Paramount would face a $7 billion break-up fee. Additionally, the company has taken on $2.8 billion in obligations previously owed by Warner Bros. Discovery to Netflix following an earlier terminated arrangement.
Paramount maintains that easing foreign ownership barriers will unlock fresh capital and strengthen its ability to compete in a rapidly evolving media landscape. For now, the spotlight remains on regulators, whose decision will determine whether this global media consolidation moves from script to screen.
