Disney-Hearst A+E Media stake sale

In late July 2026, Disney announced it was preparing to sell its 50 % stake in A+E Global Media to Hearst Communications in an all‑cash deal valued at just over $1 billion. The transaction was in its final stages and was expected to be disclosed alongside Disney’s earnings presentation in early August.

By early August, Hearst confirmed it had reached an agreement to purchase Disney’s half‑interest for approximately $1.2 billion, with the deal slated to close in September. The acquisition will give Hearst full ownership of A+E Global Media’s cable network portfolio, while the company’s leadership will remain unchanged under President and Chairman Paul Buccieri, now reporting to Hearst’s CEO.

On August 4, Hearst announced the cash transaction, confirming the $1.2 billion price and stating the deal will close in September. The acquisition gives Hearst full control of the A&E, History, Lifetime, FYI and Vice TV brands, reaching over 414 million households in 200 territories and 40 languages. Buccieri will stay on as president and chairman, reporting to Hearst CEO Steven R. Swartz. Disney said it is exiting the joint venture, which began in 1984, to concentrate on its streaming services and ESPN. The deal leaves the cable network portfolio debt‑free under Hearst’s sole ownership.