Entertainment conglomerate NBCUniversal is mulling over a move into the video game industry following a proposed spinoff from Comcast.
That’s according to a report from Reuters, which claims the company is contemplating whether a pivot into the game sector could drive growth after its planned separation.
Michael Cavanagh, who will lead NBCUniversal following the split, told Reuters the company will soon have the freedom to “explore adjacent businesses where we have the right to play.”
Comcast has already explored partnerships within the video game industry through NBCUniversal, with the company having partnered with Nintendo and Illumination to turn Super Mario Bros. into a lucrative animated movie franchise.
Investors were informed of plans to split Comcast and NBCUniversal into two independent, publicly-traded entities earlier this week.
Comcast said the move will position NBCUniversal as a dedicated “global media and entertainment company” that includes a growing theme park division, Universal film and television studios, NBC and Telemundo networks, the Peacock streaming platform, and European media business Sky.
“Together, these businesses will be powered by a portfolio of world-class intellectual property, a deep content library, extraordinary content creation capabilities, and exceptional strength across sports, news and entertainment,” reads a press release announcing the move.
“With iconic brands, valuable intellectual property, global distribution and leading creative talent, NBCUniversal will be strongly positioned to compete and grow in an evolving media landscape.”
Comcast chairman and co-CEO Brian L. Roberts said the move will “open up a multitude of new opportunities” for each business. Roberts will continue to be actively involved in the leadership of both companies.
The spinoff is expected to conclude in around one year. Comcast shareholders will own shares in both Comcast and NBCUniversal upon completion.