Walt Disney, Pixar Animation deal in sight

MUMBAI: The Walt Disney Company and Pixar Animation Studios may extend their long-term distribution deal. The original agreement expires with this summer’s release of the movie Cars.
According to a Los Angeles Times report, Disney may acquire all or part of Pixar and hire the company’s CEO Steve Jobs Disney chairman. Jobs owns 50 per cent of Pixar stock and would stand to make a fortune if he sells.
Under the existing deal, Disney co-finances each of Pixar’s productions. The two companies divide the profits equally after Disney takes its distribution fee. Disney and Pixer also share ownership of the films, and the former has the right to make sequels on its own if Pixar refuses to participate.