Lionsgate closes acquisition of eOne for $375m

Lionsgate has closed its acquisition of the global entertainment platform eOne from Hasbro.

The transaction announced last August adds 6,500 film and television titles to Lionsgate’s large library; diversifies and strengthens its scripted and unscripted television businesses; extends its portfolio of brands and franchises;  boosts the stable of brands and potential franchises with properties like Monopoly; and expands its presence in Canada and the UK.

eOne produces hit ABC franchise The Rookie, Showtime series Yellowjackets and the long-running Discovery unscripted series Naked & Afraid.

Former eOne owner Hasbro holds on to brands like the hugely popular children’s property Peppa Pig, as well as Transformers and Dungeons & Dragons and will exploit through its entertainment division.

“The eOne acquisition concludes a busy year in which we continued to execute our strategy of strengthening our studio business as we prepare for the separation of Lionsgate and STARZ into pure play standalone companies,” said Lionsgate CEO Jon Feltheimer.“As we’ve conducted our integration planning, our analysis has reaffirmed our conviction that eOne will be a valuable and highly accretive addition to our business. We are pleased to welcome eOne’s talented group of employees to our Lionsgate family.”

Jefferies & Co., Sheppard Mullin and Denton’s Canada LLP advised Lionsgate on the transaction.