When we heard the news that Spider-Man would finally join the Marvel Cinematic Universe, we felt that nothing could possibly top it. But it happened this year when we learned that 21st Century Fox was seeking a buyer for its movie division, and the prospective buyer was none other than Disney.
That news broke about a month ago, but apparently the deal had already failed. Then we saw new reports that negotiations had resumed, but Disney wasn't alone in its desire to reach a deal.
Sony and Comcast both expressed their intent. But most recently, we’ve heard that a deal with Disney is imminent and may be sealed by 2017’s end, as 21st Century Fox approached Disney in the first place.
Bloomberg reported that Fox had good reason to sell to Disney over other potential buyers.
While this entire deal encompasses everything but the Fox news and sports divisions, this is a major announcement for comic book movie enthusiasts. We daresay that it’s even more major than the Sony deal.
Spider-Man is on loan, but Disney might end up owning the rights to X-Men, Fantastic Four, and a host of affiliated heroes and villains. It’s likely that Spider-Man will have his five-story arc in the MCU and then return to Sony, unless another deal is made, but the X-Men and Fantastic Four would be permanent MCU characters!
Again, Bloomberg reported that this mammoth deal might be finalized by the end of the year. What do you think? Are you as hopeful as we are?