Disney sets sights on streaming now that $71B Fox deal is official

The Walt Disney Company officially took ownership of several 21st Century Fox entertainment assets early this morning after its $71.3 billion acquisition was finalized. Now, the company is full steam ahead on streaming.Disney’s priorities now include ESPN+, the Disney+ streaming video-on-demand service launching in late 2019, and its new majority ownership stake in Hulu.“This is an extraordinary and historic moment for us—one that will create significant long-term value for our company and our shareholders,” said Bob Iger, chairman and CEO of Disney, in a statement. “Combining Disney’s and 21st Century Fox’s wealth of creative content and proven talent creates the preeminent global entertainment company, well positioned to lead in an incredibly dynamic and transformative era.” Disney will be taking over Twentieth Century Fox, Fox Searchlight Pictures, Fox 2000 Pictures, Fox Family and Fox Animation; Fox’s television creative units, Twentieth Century Fox Television, FX Productions and Fox21; FX Networks; National Geographic Partners; Fox Networks Group International; and Star India; along with Fox’s interests in Hulu, Tata Sky and Endemol Shine Group.