Lionsgate stock surges as European suitors circle the studio behind 'Hunger Games' and 'John Wick'

Shares of Lionsgate Studios jumped more than 9% on reports that the entertainment company is exploring a sale and has drawn interest from several European media groups. The stock surge followed exclusive reporting by Reuters, carried by KELO-AM, that the studio behind blockbuster franchises like "The Hunger Games" and "John Wick" has hired an investment bank to field potential buyers.

KELO-AMExclusive-Lionsgate Studios attracts takeover interest from Bollore, Banijay, sources say

"Lionsgate shares surged over 9% following reports that the studio behind The Hunger Games is exploring a sale and courting interest from European buyers."

DeadlineLionsgate shares jump 9% on reports of European buyer interest and potential sale

According to KELO-AM, among the parties that have expressed interest are Banijay, which recently closed a deal for All3Media, and Mediawan, while Bollore, the parent company of Canal+, has also been mentioned as a potential suitor. The report cited two sources familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Deadline confirmed the share jump and noted that Lionsgate declined to comment on the reports. The company, which also owns the Starz streaming platform, has seen its stock fluctuate in recent years as it navigates the shifting media landscape and a planned separation of its studio and cable assets.

The interest from European buyers underscores the enduring value of Lionsgate's deep library of film and television intellectual property, which includes not only the blockbuster franchises but also TV hits like "Mad Men" and "Weeds." As consolidation continues in the entertainment industry, the reported suitors may see Lionsgate as a way to expand their footprint in the U.S. market.