Warner Bros Discovery will not be selling its Polish network TVN.
Following a strategic review, WBD management has decided to keep the broadcaster in its ranks, according to a note sent today to staff from Kasia Kieli, Head of WBD Poland and CEO at TVN, and Gerhard Zeiler, President of International at WBD.
“That review has been completed, and WBD has concluded that the best path forward is retaining ownership of TVN, continuing to support our business, our strategy and the incredible journalistic work of our team,” the note read.
TVN, which is very profitable, is the single largest business within WBD’s international business and a leading Polish network. Along with its flagship channel and news networks TVN24 and TVN24BiS, the TVN Group makes the likes of breakout Max original The Eastern Gate, which we revealed last month is returning for a second season.
Watch on Deadline
That meant it could have fetched a significant price at market, and Polish business Michal Solowow’s MS Galleon fund, media group WP Holding and expanding European broadcasting giant MediaForEurope were among those who had kicked the tyres at the very least.
However, the Polish government had placed TVN on a list of :strategic companies” that could not be sold without its approval, with fears around Russian interference with the upcoming Polish election in May. Reuters today reported that the uncertainty caused by Donald Trump’s trade tariffs policy, along with fears over geopolitical risk and recession had played a role in WBD’s decision to hold. Other reports suggest the sales process was halted before any official bids were made.
“We know that this period of uncertainty may have been difficult, and we appreciate your continued dedication and unwavering focus,” wrote Kieli and Zeiler today. “Moving forward, we are united as part of the WBD team, dedicated to supporting our colleagues and driving the success of our group.”
The post Warner Bros Discovery Decides Against Selling Polish Network TVN: “The Best Path Forward Is Retaining Ownership” appeared first on Deadline.
