Disney Sells Half of A+E to Hearst in a $1B+ Cash Deal

Disney will sell its 50% stake in A+E Global Media to Hearst for more than $1 billion in cash, giving Hearst full ownership of A&E Networks (A&E, History, Lifetime, FYI). The deal, expected to be announced at Disney’s earnings call, would have A+E President Paul Buccieri continue leading the venture under Hearst. The sale underscores Disney’s ongoing shift away from traditional linear TV, even as ESPN remains a joint venture.