Hearst, the US media giant, has agreed a deal to acquire The Walt Disney Company’s 50 per cent stake ​in A+E Global Media in a deal worth around $1.2 billion (€1.04bn) ‌in cash, giving it full ownership of the television and content business. A+E ​operates a number of brands including A&E, Lifetime, FYI, The History ​Channel, LMN, and Vice TV. “We look forward to supporting Paul Buccieri and A+E Global Media’s leadership team as they continue to make must-see programmes and innovate around the great History, Lifetime, and A&E brands.” “In a media environment defined by fragmentation, A+E Global Media’s advantage is the strength and versatility of our brands, our strong partnerships, and our vast library of owned assets,” added Paul Buccieri, President and Chairman of A+E Global Media. I also want to express my deepest thanks to Hearst, The Walt Disney Company, and to our board members – both recent and past – for their guidance and support over the years.”