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US: Could a DreamWorks Animation-Comcast merger threaten Disney?

By  |  April 28, 2016

A union between DreamWorks Animation and Comcast Corp. would expand the center of gravity for the animated sector of the film industry in the San Fernando Valley and perhaps challenge industry heavyweight Disney, analysts said Wednesday.

Comcast is reportedly offering $3 billion for Glendale-based DreamWorks Animation.

The Wall Street Journal first reported the deal on Tuesday, citing sources familiar with the transaction.

Partnerships that create cross-pollination between content producers and distribution companies are increasing because such corporate synergy reduces costs associated with buying content and paying to get it to audiences.

Comcast’s Universal Pictures has been dabbling in animation and released the “Despicable Me” franchise and “Minions” in recent years. But Universal is nowhere near the animation powerhouse of Disney.

Moffett notes that Comcast tried to buy Disney 12 years ago and then five years later purchased NBCUniversal.

Acquiring DreamWorks Animation could turn the Comcast family into an animation powerhouse.

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