Disney acquire Lucasfilm Ltd., for $4.05 billion in cash and stock

CHICAGO (MarketWatch)
Walt Disney Co. said Tuesday that it has entered into a deal to acquire Lucasfilm Ltd., the owner of the "Star Wars" franchise, from founder George Lucas for $4.05 billion in cash and stock
Disney will pay half the purchase price in cash and issue about 40 million shares when the transaction closes
The final price will be subject to customary post-closing balance sheet adjustments
Disney's move marks its first major acquisition since it bought Marvel Entertainment in 2009 for $4.24 billion
In addition to the box-office revenues it can realize from future "Star Wars" theatrical films, Disney will be able to utilize its consumer products arm to develop and market "Star Wars"-related merchandise
The company already features "Star Wars" content at its theme parks in Anaheim, Calif., Orlando, Fla., Paris and Tokyo.