Disney Sells A+E Stake for $1.2 Billion as Streaming Focus Continues

Walt Disney has offloaded its stake in A+E Networks to Hearst for $1.2 billion, marking another move by the company to focus on its streaming and ESPN businesses.

The deal sees Hearst take full control of A+E Global Media upon closing in September, with CEO Steven Swartz saying 'We look forward to supporting Paul Buccieri and A+E Global Media's leadership team as they continue to make must-see programs and innovate around the great HISTORY, Lifetime and A&E brands.'

This comes as investors and analysts debate Disney's long-term media strategy, with some arguing that the company should exit the streaming business and return to its traditional model of producing and licensing content.