Comcast, the company behind Sky and NBC, is in advanced talks to take over ITV’s broadcasting arm, which includes its free-to-air channels.
- Potential deal potentially worth £2 billion
- ITV would be split in two; its programme production business isn’t part of the talks.
- Any deal expected to face scrutiny from regulators, but less likely to face hurdles in modern media landscape.
Comcast is in advanced talks to acquire ITV’s entire broadcasting division for £2 billion, aiming to expand its UK media footprint, according to multiple reports on Thursday evening.
Any deal would include the flagship ITV1 channel, alongside its newer digital channels ITV2, ITV3, ITV4 and ITV Quiz.
Excluded from the talks is ITV’s programme production business ITV Studios, the home of shows including I’m A Celebrity, Come Dine With Me and Mr Bates versus the Post Office. ITV Studios has been the subject of different takeover talks. The production business, which has origins in ITV’s former regionalised programme making operations, has benefited from making shows for other broadcasters internationally, as well as receiving commissions from streaming services.
Regulatory scrutiny is expected, particularly from Ofcom and the Competition and Markets Authority, due to concerns over media plurality and market dominance. Analysts suggest the acquisition could lead to greater investment in UK programming, but also raise questions about editorial independence and the future of public service broadcasting.
Any takeover would give Sky’s owner a shareholding in Everyone TV, the company responsible for promoting and managing the UK’s free-to-air television platforms.
ITV and Comcast have so far not commented on the media reports.
By: Marc Thornham | Image: ITV