Hearst has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire The Walt Disney Company’s 50% stake in A+E Global Media in a cash deal valued at approximately $1.2 billion.
The transaction is expected to close in September 2026, subject to customary closing conditions, after which A+E Global Media will become a wholly owned company within Hearst Entertainment.
Commenting on the deal, Hearst President and CEO Steven R. Swartz thanked Disney for its longstanding partnership and said the company looks forward to supporting A+E’s leadership as it continues to expand its portfolio. Paul Buccieri, President and Chairman of A+E Global Media, highlighted the company’s strong collection of brands and extensive content library, saying those strengths position it well for continued global growth.
Originally launched in 1984 as the Arts & Entertainment Network, A+E Global Media now reaches more than 414 million households across 200 territories in 40 languages. Its portfolio includes well-known brands such as A&E, Lifetime, The HISTORY Channel, LMN, FYI, and VICE TV.
