Disney and Hearst Consider Selling A+E Global Media: What This Means for Viewers

A+E Global Media, which includes the well-known channels A&E, History, and Lifetime, is considering a sale. This comes as cable networks face a constant decline in viewers and advertising dollars. Although the company still generates cash, the trend of separating media assets is becoming more common. For instance, Comcast plans to spin off its cable channels into a new entity called Versant.

Experts say this is not surprising. Media companies are reassessing their assets, especially as more viewers shift to streaming services. Disney’s CEO, Bob Iger, hinted that linear television might not be a core focus anymore. However, Disney later recognized that these networks still hold value, especially when used to bolster their streaming platforms.

A&E, along with History and Lifetime, boasts around 58 million domestic subscribers each, according to Nielsen as of September 2024. Interestingly, A+E Global Media’s content reaches about 200 countries. The pandemic sped up the move away from traditional TV. Nielsen reported major drops in viewership due to this trend, leading to revenue concerns for many linear networks.

Last year, Disney saw its equity income drop significantly, down to $207 million from $575 million. Despite this, linear networks still contribute considerable cash flow. Media executives believe that by creating standalone companies, they will be better equipped to manage their declining assets and adapt to the fast-evolving landscape.

Comcast’s upcoming spin-off, Versant, which will include networks like MSNBC and USA Network, aims to refine focus and drive better financial returns. Similarly, Warner Bros. Discovery is looking to restructure by mid-2026, separating its channels to allow more targeted strategies for growth.

Overall, while the future for traditional cable networks seems uncertain, the move towards specialization and strategic separation may open up new chances for growth and adaptation in a changing media world.



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A+E Global Media,Cable TV,Disney,Hearst Corporation