LION Stock Soars After-Hours As European Bidders Eye Lionsgate

• Sources cautioned Reuters that no deal is certain and Lionsgate could remain independent.
• Two sources also stated that the company’s high valuation relative to its peers could make it difficult to reach a deal. 
• In June, Semafor reported that Netflix is interested in purchasing Lionsgate, though it submitted no formal indication of interest.

Shares of Lionsgate Studios (LION) surged as much as 9% in after-hours trading on Tuesday following reports that the company has drawn takeover interest from France’s Bolloré Group and TV production company Banijay.

Takeover Interest Builds

Lionsgate has been evaluating inbound approaches with the help of an investment bank, Reuters reported, citing people familiar with the matter. Bolloré, which controls pay-TV operator Canal+, is seeking to strengthen its content production capabilities. Banijay, fresh off completing its merger with All3Media, has also considered a bid, though integration work could slow any formal offer, the report added.

Sources cautioned Reuters that no deal is certain and Lionsgate could remain independent. Two sources also stated that the company’s high valuation relative to its peers could make it difficult to reach a deal.

Lionsgate Has Multiple Alleged Suitors

Lionsgate Studios became a standalone public company in May 2025 after separating from Starz Entertainment. It focuses on film and television production and distribution, holding a library of more than 20,000 titles and major franchises including The Hunger Games, John Wick, and Twilight Saga. The studio’s recent Michael Jackson biopic, Michael, has grossed over $1 billion worldwide.

In June, Semafor reported that Netflix is interested in purchasing Lionsgate, though it submitted no formal indication of interest. Netflix, however, rejected the report.

Earlier reports in 2025 stated that Apollo-backed Legendary Entertainment was weighing a potential acquisition of Lionsgate. Initial discussions reportedly focused on a smaller-scale co-production partnership for a handful of films to test working compatibility before any full acquisition.

How Did Retail Traders React?

On Stocktwits, retail sentiment around LION stock jumped from ‘bearish’ to ‘neutral’ over the past 24 hours, while message volume stayed at ‘low’ levels.

A Stocktwits user voiced hopes for the company getting bought out for over $20/ share, representing a significant premium from Tuesday’s closing price of $13.29.

Another said that Netflix should consider buying Lionsgate.

LION stock has gained 46% year-to-date. 

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