Amidst the challenges faced by legacy studios, speculation has emerged about a potential sale of Disney to Apple. Despite skepticism from some top executives, the idea of Apple acquiring Disney continues to circulate.
An industry insider noted, “I don’t think [Apple] would buy the company as it presently exists… But if you see Bob start to divest things… that feels like he’s prepping for a sale. And there’s clearly no buyer like Apple.”
Bob Iger, Disney’s former CEO, recently indicated that Disney’s TV businesses might not be core to its operations, sparking further discussion about the company’s future. With $62 billion in cash and a market cap of $2.8 trillion, Apple stands as a unique potential buyer. The notion gains weight considering Disney’s invaluable intellectual property and its status as the entertainment industry’s most valuable brand.
According to THR, a significant relationship between Disney and Apple has been established over the years, with Steve Jobs serving on Disney’s board and Bob Iger joining Apple’s board after Jobs’ passing.
As the entertainment landscape continues to shift, some industry veterans predict a consolidation of studios, leaving a few major players like Apple, Amazon, and Netflix at the forefront.
While Bob Iger returned to the CEO position in the face of industry changes, sources suggest he’s under immense stress. Notably, many key figures from the prosperous years are no longer part of the company. With this context, the idea of finding a suitable home for Disney could become more appealing.
Amid uncertainties, the possibility of Apple acquiring Disney remains speculative, and industry dynamics will play a crucial role in any potential future developments.
