Starz Expresses Interest in Acquiring A+E Global Media Amid Strategic Review

In a move that could reshape the media landscape, Starz has expressed interest in potentially acquiring A+E Global Media, the parent company of popular channels like Lifetime and History. This development comes as A+E's owners, Disney and Hearst, launched a strategic review of the company in July 2025.

Starz, which separated from Lionsgate earlier this year, is actively seeking opportunities to expand its reach and scale. CEO Jeff Hirsch has stated that the company is "poised to increase our scale as assets that are strategically valuable to Starz become available." Hirsch believes that A+E's extensive content library and distribution network could be a valuable addition to Starz's portfolio, particularly in reaching underrepresented audiences.

While there has been no actual movement on the talks yet, the potential acquisition could be a significant move for Starz as it looks to capitalize on the ongoing consolidation in the media industry. A+E Global Media boasts over 70,000 distinct content assets, reaching more than 414 million households in 200 territories and 40 languages. The company's multi-platform strategy has allowed it to reach 60% of U.S. adults, making it an attractive target for Starz's growth ambitions.

As the media landscape continues to evolve, the potential Starz-A+E deal could be a strategic move to strengthen both companies' positions in the rapidly changing industry.