Disney sells A+E Global Media stake to Hearst for $1.2 billion

Disney is selling its 50% stake in A+E Global Media to Hearst for approximately $1.2 billion in an all-cash transaction, ending a joint venture that dates back to 1984 and signaling the company’s shift away from traditional cable television.

Hearst announced the agreement on August 4, with the transaction expected to close in September 2026, subject to customary closing conditions. Upon closing, A+E Global Media will become a wholly owned Hearst business within its Entertainment group.

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A+E Global Media operates some of the most recognizable cable brands in the industry, including A&E, History, Lifetime, LMN, FYI, and Vice TV. The company reaches more than 414 million households across 200 territories in 40 languages, according to the company’s data.

Disney and Hearst have been equal partners in A+E since 2012, when they acquired NBCUniversal’s minority stake. The partnership began in 1984 with the launch of the Arts & Entertainment Network, then expanded in 2009 with the acquisition of Lifetime Networks, which was itself a Disney-Hearst joint venture.

The sale reflects Disney’s broader strategic shift toward streaming and away from linear television assets. Richard Greenfield, a media analyst at LightShed Partners, said the move aligns with industry trends. “We firmly agree with Disney’s decision to reduce its linear TV exposure by exiting its 50% stake in A+E Networks,” Greenfield stated. “We would love to see Disney completely exit linear TV.”

A television studio set with empty studio lights hanging overhead, broadcast equipment silhouetted against a dimly lit background, a single monitor screen glowing in darkness

The A+E sale echoes broader restructuring in the media industry. Comcast, for example, spun off a group of cable networks including MSNBC, CNBC, USA Network, Golf Channel, Syfy, Oxygen, and E! into a new public company called Versant Media earlier this year. Greenfield noted that Disney has stated it has no plans to separate ESPN and ABC from the company, though he cautioned that corporate strategy can shift when stock performance lags.

Steven R. Swartz, president and CEO of Hearst, thanked Disney for the partnership. “We look forward to supporting Paul Buccieri and A+E Global Media’s leadership team as they continue to make must-see programs and innovate around the great History, Lifetime and A&E brands,” Swartz said in a statement. Buccieri, who has led A+E since 2018, will continue in his role as president and chairman.

Sources

Deadline — Disney’s sale agreement and transaction details
The Hollywood Reporter — Partnership history dating to 1984 and deal structure
MediaPost — Richard Greenfield analyst commentary on linear TV strategy
Hearst — Official announcement and executive statements

About the author, Chris Martin

Chris Martin is a US economics and current affairs journalist covering the intersection of policy, markets, and everyday financial life. With a background in financial reporting and a sharp eye for the stories behind the numbers, Chris brings clarity to some of the most complex issues shaping the American economy today. At ECIKS.org, Chris covers breaking developments across domestic economic policy, business strategy, Wall Street movements, and political decisions that ripple through financial markets. His reporting blends rigorous data analysis with accessible storytelling making critical information useful for investors, entrepreneurs, and engaged citizens alike.