Warner Bros. sues Amazon over employee poaching

Warner Bros. Discovery has filed a lawsuit against Amazon, alleging the streaming giant illegally recruited former senior vice‑president for originals marketing, Pia Barlow. The complaint claims Amazon engaged in a “lawless employee shopping spree,” riding on the coattails of established Hollywood studios. Barlow, whose contract with Warner Bros. Discovery was set to run through October 31, is scheduled to begin a new role as head of original series marketing for Amazon on August 3.

The suit also cites reports from Deadline that Francesca Orsi, HBO’s head of drama series and films, may be another target of Amazon’s recruitment efforts. Warner Bros. Discovery argues that these moves violate contractual agreements and undermine the competitive balance within the entertainment industry. The company seeks damages and an injunction to prevent further employee poaching by Amazon.

The case highlights growing tensions between major studios and streaming platforms over talent acquisition. Warner Bros. Discovery’s legal action underscores its stance that aggressive recruitment tactics can cross legal boundaries, while Amazon has yet to respond publicly to the allegations.