Disney Says Conversations About Buying Epic Games Are Not Happening 'Right Now'

Disney has responded after rumors suggested it was interested in buying Fortnite developer Epic Games. Disney president and chief creative officer Dana Walden touched on the company's relationship with Epic during an interview with Bloomberg Live. When asked if there have been talks about expanding their previously established relationship with a full-on acquisition, she said that strategy isn't something Disney is entertaining, at least right now.

"Well, I think that it was pretty obvious that we had very serious conversations about an investment and an equity stake," Walden responded. "Those are not the conversations we're having right now, but we have a great partnership and a number of launches coming up over the next two years that are going to demonstrate the value of this partnership." The relationship referenced here was solidified when Disney announced it acquired a $1.5 billion stake in Epic back in early 2024. It was a massive play that promised would result in collaborations across Fortnite and more in the future.

"Our exciting new relationship with Epic Games will bring together Disney’s beloved brands and franchises with the hugely popular Fortnite in a transformational new games and entertainment universe," then-CEO Bob Iger said. "This marks Disney’s biggest entry ever into the world of games and offers significant opportunities for growth and expansion. We can’t wait for fans to experience the Disney stories and worlds they love in groundbreaking new ways."

While an acquisition isn't in the cards, Walden's promise regarding "a number of launches" set to arrive in the next few years suggests there is plenty more to talk about. We'll have to wait and see how the two entertainment giants work together moving forward.