Arabic version: سكاي تستحوذ على قسم الإعلام في ITV مقابل 1.6 مليار جنيه إسترليني

ITV is selling its media and entertainment divisions to Sky in a £1.6bn deal that aims to bolster competition against major global streaming services. This acquisition includes ITV’s broadcast channels and its ITVX streaming platform, while ITV’s studio arm, known for producing popular shows like Love Island and I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here, is not included in the deal.

According to BBC News, Sky’s Chief Executive Dana Strong described the transaction as “a defining moment for British media.” This takeover is one of the largest in the history of British media and follows takeover discussions initiated by Comcast, which owns Sky, back in November of last year.

Sky emphasized that the deal is part of a broader strategy to adapt to the rapidly evolving UK media landscape, where competition for audience attention is intensifying. The company stated that there would be no immediate changes to popular programming, including shows like Coronation Street and major live sporting events.

The acquisition is pending regulatory approval, and once finalized, ITV Studios will operate as an independent entity. Sky has also committed to investing £2.1bn in content from ITV Studios over the next five years, further solidifying its position in the competitive media market.