As predicted in prior reports, Hearst has signed a deal to acquire Disney’s 50% stake in A+E Global Media for $1.2 billion in cash, Variety reports. A+E
Global Media is the parent company of Lifetime, History Channel, A&E Network and other assets. Hearst also owns a roughly 18% stake in Disney’s ESPN but that is unaffected by the
A&E Global Media transaction. That deal is expected to close in September, and Paul Buccieri will continue as president and chairman.