Disney revealed Thursday that it will release the next movie
in the “Star Wars’’ franchise to theaters on Dec. 18, 2015, according to The NYPost.
Disney bought “Star Wars” producer Lucasfilm for more than
$4 billion last year and with an eye toward releasing three more films. “Star
Wars: Episode VII” will start filming in spring 2014 and will be directed by
J.J. Abrams.
“This, obviously, is one of the most important movies we
have in the next few years, and we’ve chosen a date we believe will allow the
creative team the time to make a great film,” Disney CEO Bob Iger said in an
earnings call with analysts.
Disney’s third-quarter profit rose by 12 percent to $1.4
billion. Earnings per share were 77 cents, beating analysts estimates of 76
cents. Revenue rose 7 percent, to $11.56 billion, versus expectations for $11.4
billion.
Broadcasting was the dark spot in an otherwise rosy quarter
for the Mouse House.
The ABC network and TV stations were plagued by higher costs
for scripted programs such as “Scandal,” compared with cheaper reality shows
last year. Operating income plunged 18 percent, to $158 million in the latest
quarter.
The cable network division, home to ESPN and Disney Channel,
also had a negative quarter, posting a 7 percent drop in operating income, to
$1.3 billion.
Disney said the issue was a reduction in the recognition of
previously deferred ESPN affiliate-fee revenues; otherwise, operating income
would have risen by $77 million instead of falling by $95 million.
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