Disney-ABC Television, Hearst and NBC Universal are discussing putting cable channels A&E and Lifetime together in a joint venture. The three media companies already share ownership in A&E
Television Networks.
Disney and Hearst each own 37.5% in A&E and NBC Universal holds the remaining 25%. Lifetime is run by a 50/50 joint venture of Hearst and Walt Disney Co, called
Lifetime Entertainment Services. When complete, the new deal will expand a growing relationship between Disney and NBC Universal, which are also partners in the online company Hulu. Hearst and ABC
jointly own ESPN, but it's not part of the current discussion.
A&E Television Networks owns brands including A&E Network, History Channel, Bio, Military History, Crime &
Investigation and History en espanol. Lifetime operates the Lifetime Movie Network.
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