ITV agrees to sell its media and entertainment business to Sky for a deal valued at up to £1.6 billion, according to multiple outlets. The transaction is described as the result of months of talks, with reporting indicating negotiations began at least as early as November. Sky is owned by Comcast, and the acquisition would expand Sky’s position in UK pay-TV and streaming as broadcasters respond to competition from global streaming services.
The deal includes ITV’s streaming platform ITVX and its free-to-air channels. Sources also report that ITV’s studio operations are not included, and that ITV’s public service commitments will continue to be maintained under the arrangement. One report notes the consideration could include debt.
Several publications frame the move as reshaping the UK television landscape by combining ITV’s broadcasting and digital assets with Sky’s distribution. Financial Times adds that the combined broadcaster would reach around 21 million households, leaving Comcast in control of the broadcaster. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2027, with remaining steps subject to approvals and closing conditions.
