Posted 9/18/2023, 9:00:00 AM

Disney Open to ABC Sale Amid Shift from Network News, Though No Deal Imminent

Disney insisted it's not selling ABC "at this time" last week but admitted it's open to "strategic options" for the network. A sale could impact ABC News.
Many industry insiders say network TV news is becoming obsolete, but ABC newscasts still draw decent audiences and profits.
Anchors like Robin Roberts and George Stephanopoulos have lucrative contracts a new owner may not want to maintain.
Disney CEO Bob Iger hinted ABC "may not be core" to Disney's business, fueling sale speculation.
Bloomberg reported Disney held "exploratory talks" with Nexstar about selling ABC. Disney says it's made "no decision" on a sale yet.

foxnews.com

Relevant topic timeline:

9/17/2023

Disney Seeks to Sell Declining Linear Networks, Signaling Shift to Streaming Future

Disney's potential sale of ABC and its affiliated networks is not primarily motivated by financial gains, but rather serves as a signal to investors that Disney is ready to move away from traditional television and focus on its streaming businesses.