Legendary Entertainment, the studio behind major hits like Dune and Godzilla, is reportedly looking to acquire Lionsgate, the mini-major known for John Wick and The Hunger Games. If the rumored acquisition moves forward, it could reshape Hollywood by bringing together two powerhouse studios under a single banner.
Sources indicate that Legendary’s interest in Lionsgate comes after it sold a significant stake to Chinese investors last year. By ending its partnership with the Dalian Wanda Group, Legendary removed foreign ownership restrictions, clearing the way for major acquisitions like Lionsgate without regulatory hurdles. Supported by Apollo Global
Management, Legendary aims to grow its global reach and expand its content production capabilities.
Although Lionsgate owns popular franchises such as The Hunger Games and John Wick, the studio has faced challenges recently. Its biggest 2025 release, Ballerina, underperformed at the box office, grossing $131.4 million against a $90 million budget. Combined with multiple box office disappointments in 2024, Lionsgate has been under pressure to reverse its fortunes.
Earlier this year, Lionsgate restructured by separating its television and film divisions into two independent companies. This was viewed as an effort to streamline operations and enhance its appeal to potential buyers like Legendary.
A merger between Legendary and Lionsgate would provide Legendary with access to Lionsgate’s valuable film and TV library, industry relationships, and established production infrastructure. Acquiring Lionsgate could allow Legendary to diversify beyond big-budget blockbusters and leverage Lionsgate’s expertise in mid-budget and franchise filmmaking.
Moreover, with rival studios consolidating and expanding their portfolios, Legendary’s interest in Lionsgate is widely seen as a strategic move to maintain competitiveness in the rapidly evolving Hollywood market.
Though still in early stages, both companies are reportedly exploring their options. Industry insiders speculate that Legendary may initially pursue a production partnership with Lionsgate, which could lead to a full acquisition if negotiations succeed.
If completed, this deal would stand as one of the most significant mergers in recent Hollywood history, uniting two influential players under one roof. Fans of both studios will be watching closely as Legendary continues to pursue its ambitious growth strategy.
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