Warner Bros. Discovery has filed a lawsuit against Amazon in Los Angeles, alleging that Amazon illegally encouraged contracted staff to leave, with HBO marketing executive Pia Barlow cited as its clearest example. The action escalates a dispute over recruitment practices in the entertainment industry and could test the enforceability of fixed-term employment agreements under California law.

WBD says Barlow, formerly HBO Max’s senior vice-president of originals marketing, was contracted until 31 October 2027 but is due to join Amazon MGM Studios on 3 August as head of original series marketing. Filed on 21 July, the suit seeks unspecified damages and an injunction, alleging Amazon knowingly induced a breach by offering higher pay and promising legal protection; Amazon declined to comment.