Which media company acquired Pixar in 2006?

Disney acquired Pixar in 2006.

The Walt Disney Company agreed to buy Pixar in January 2006 in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $7.4 billion. After approval by Pixar shareholders, the acquisition was completed on May 5, 2006.

The deal followed years of collaboration between the companies. Pixar produced films while Disney handled distribution, and their partnership produced hits including Toy Story, A Bug’s Life, Monsters, Inc., and The Incredibles. Tensions over ownership, profits, and creative control eventually led to difficult contract negotiations.

The acquisition did not erase Pixar’s identity. Pixar kept its name, Emeryville headquarters, and distinct studio culture. Steve Jobs, Pixar’s largest shareholder, became Disney’s largest individual shareholder and joined Disney’s board. Pixar leaders John Lasseter and Ed Catmull also took major roles in Disney animation, linking the two studios creatively while preserving Pixar as a separate brand.