Disney Fanatic recently reported on quotes made by a prominent Nexstar Media group executive about potentially purchasing Disney’s local ABC television programming. While our initial article focused on the challenges of a possible purchase, many media outlets reported that the two companies were actually engaged in talks over a sale. The Walt Disney Company has since commented on the matter, and it isn’t letting this narrative fly.
Is Nexstar Courting Disney?
Nexstar Media Group, renowned for its growth strategy through mergers and acquisitions, has expressed interest in Disney’s local ABC networks. This move aligns with Nexstar’s established pattern of successfully integrating various television stations and companies over the years. Their ambition to assert dominance in the media landscape is well-recognized among traditional TV viewers.
Tom Carter, a seasoned executive at Nexstar, recently hinted at the potential acquisition of Disney’s ABC stations with minimal obstacles. He stated there would be “little friction” if the company purchased these programming outlets. Nevertheless, Disney Fanatic raised critical questions that delved deeper into the challenges and repercussions that could stem from such a merger.
Disney Statement on Nexstar Sale
Reports have been circulating in the media regarding Disney’s alleged early talks with Nexstar Media Group regarding the potential sale of Disney’s ABC network and TV stations. However, Disney has officially responded to these reports, stating that they have not made any decisions regarding the divestiture of ABC or any other property. Disney considers these reports to be baseless. The statement given to the press is blunt in its delivery:
While we are open to considering a variety of strategic options for our linear businesses, at this time The Walt Disney Company has made no decision with respect to the divestiture of ABC or any other property and any report to that effect is unfounded.
Disney CEO Bob Iger expressed his doubts about the future of Disney’s linear TV networks over the summer. Prominent programming such as ABC, FX, Disney Channel, National Geographic, and Freeform have all been under the magnifying glass since then over a possible sale. However, it seems Disney is trying to sway the narrative to keep its business dealings under wraps. All Disney suitors should be viewed as hearsay until an official sale to any media company is made.
While media outlets had hinted at a possible deal with Nexstar, Disney’s recent statement clarifies that no such decision has been reached. This development underscores the uncertainty surrounding the fate of Disney’s linear TV holdings and leaves room for further speculation about potential buyers and the future of these media assets.
