Mergers & Acquisitions
United Kingdom
29 August 2025
Latham & Watkins has a strong international presence, aiding clients with cross-border multinational deals in the media and entertainment sector. The team is adept at handling a wide range of transactions, including M&A, joint ventures, investments, and dispositions for media clientele. The team is jointly led by Rachael Astin and Patrick Mitchell who are both well-versed in corporate media issues; Astin centres her practice on advising US studios and international TV groups on transactional issues such as mergers, licensing deals and investments, while Mitchell predominantly advises broadcasting and media companies, including sports governing bodies, on media rights transactions.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Rachael Astin and her team provided exceptional advice and supported us throughout a tricky contract negotiation. They had a keen understanding of the Middle East and entertainment sectors and were able to advise us on the best route forward.’
‘Rachael Astin provided excellent advice and guidance.’
'The team is very good at analysing a difficult scenario and advising on what is a real issue, quantifying the issue and providing practical advice.'
Key clients
- Skydance Media
- DAZN Limited
- Two Circles Ltd.
- CVC Advisors Limited
- Saudi Research and Media Group
- Moonbug Entertainment Limited
- Pinewood Studios
- Kobalt Music Group
- Marv Studios Limited
- England and Wales Cricket Board Limited
- Anton Capital
- Shamrock
Work highlights
Represented Skydance in its merger with Paramount to form “New Paramount”.
Advised DAZN on an agreement to acquire Foxtel Group from News Corp and Telstra at an enterprise value of $2.2bn, subject to regulatory approval.
Advised Two Circles on its agreement to acquire Spring Media Group.
Practice head
Rachael Astin; Patrick Mitchell