In what year did Disney acquire 21st Century Fox? Disney acquired 21st Century Fox in 2019.
The transaction became effective at 12:02 a.m. Eastern Time on March 20, 2019. Disney paid with cash and newly issued shares, acquiring major entertainment assets including Twentieth Century Fox, Fox Searchlight Pictures, FX Networks, National Geographic, Star India, and Fox's interest in Hulu.
The deal was announced in 2017 and required regulatory review, which is why 2018 can seem plausible. Before closing, 21st Century Fox separated businesses such as Fox News, Fox Broadcasting, and Fox Sports into the newly formed Fox Corporation. Disney acquired selected film, television, and international assets—not every business formerly associated with the Fox name.
The purchase was one of the largest media mergers in entertainment history and significantly expanded Disney's library and streaming position ahead of the launch of Disney+ later in 2019.