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Lionsgate Acquisition Buzz: Banijay & Mediawan Circle Studio
15 Jul
Summary
- Lionsgate Studios is reportedly attracting acquisition interest from Banijay Group and Mediawan.
- The studio's valuable library includes 'Hunger Games,' 'John Wick,' and 'Twilight' franchises.
- Pricing concerns have reportedly caused previous potential suitors to withdraw from talks.
Lionsgate Studios is currently fielding acquisition interest from European media powerhouses Banijay Group and Mediawan. This interest comes as the studio, valued at roughly $3.8 billion, has engaged an investment bank to explore these inbound offers.
Banijay, known for reality formats like 'Big Brother,' is reportedly weighing a bid, though its integration of All3Media may cause delays. Mediawan, which has expanded its English-language market presence, sees Lionsgate as a strategic acquisition to bolster its portfolio with major theatrical franchises.
However, valuation has emerged as a significant hurdle. Lionsgate shares are trading at a premium compared to similar studios, a factor that reportedly led earlier potential buyers to abandon discussions due to a gap in expected shareholder value.
A recent development involves director Mark Rachesky moving his approximately 10% stake into a new fund backed by RenWave Kore, adding another layer to the ongoing corporate discussions.
