Blackstone initiates talks with Walt Disney

Mumbai: Blackstone has initiated talks with Walt Disney to assess the potential acquisition of Disney’s media operations in India, including its streaming and television businesses, according to media reports.

Reports also said that in recent weeks, high-level leadership from both companies have engaged in several discussions. Blackstone is considering the purchase of either a partial business package, which includes assets like sports properties, media rights, and the Disney+ Hotstar streaming service, or the complete portfolio, encompassing the Star India TV network, over-the-top (OTT) services, and a 30 per cent stake in Tata Play.

Key players in facilitating these discussions are believed to be former Disney executives Kevin Mayer and Tom Staggs, who were brought back as advisors to CEO Bob Iger in July.

It remains unclear whether Blackstone is considering a broader global transaction or focusing solely on India.