Is ITV Buying All3Media? ‘Love Island’ Broadcaster Confirms Interest to Shareholders

variety.com:

Manori Ravindran Executive Editor of International U.K. broadcaster ITV has confirmed that it’s “actively exploring the possible acquisition” of “Fleabag” and “The Traitors” producer All3Media.

In a letter to shareholders on Friday morning local time, the “Love Island” broadcaster confirmed media speculation about its talks to buy All3Media, which was first reported by Reuters. “There can be no certainty as to whether any transaction will take place, nor as to the terms of any such transaction,” reads the letter. “A further announcement will be made if and when appropriate.” Citing sources close to the deal, Reuters reported on Thursday that ITV is looking to combine All3Media with its own in-house production and distribution business ITV Studios, which itself has been the subject of sales speculation in the last year. (ITV CEO Carolyn McCall told Variety earlier this year, however, that the studios operation “is not for sale.”) London-headquartered TV producer All3Media is responsible for shows including “Gogglebox,” “Call the Midwife” and Jamie Dornan-led drama “The Tourist.” The company has been put on the sales block by owners Liberty Global and Warner Bros.

Discovery, with JP Morgan overseeing a deal. A potential deal could see Warner Bros. Discovery sell its stake in All3Media in order to lessen its debt.

Liberty Global could also keep its stake in the merged All3Media-ITV Studios outfit. Alternatively, ITV could buy out both owners.