The Walt Disney Co. has long been making waves by discussing plans to acquire 21st Century Fox. More than a year (and many legal steps) later, the empire behind our favorite round-eared mouse officially owns the mass media company.
The deal, which is reportedly worth $71.3 billion, ultimately transfers previously Fox-owned films and characters to Disney’s hands. Additionally, Disney now possesses many television networks that were previously owned by Fox, including FX Networks and National Geographic.
Fox Corp. still owned and operated TV networks, so Fox News, Fox Business Network, and Fox Sports will not be passed over to Disney.
The merger will impact the media landscape in several massive ways – some good, and some that can be viewed as negatives. On the positive side, Disney’s upcoming streaming service Disney+ will now be much more appealing, as they will be able to stream many more movies and television shows. But one potential downside is the expected loss of thousands of jobs as the dust settles.
What kinds of Disney and Fox crossovers would you like to see in the future? X-Men in the Marvel Cinematic Universe? A Grey’s Anatomy-themed roller coaster in Disney World? Just about anything’s possible now.
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