Byron Allen Secures 11% Ownership in Starz for $25M

Black media mogul Byron Allen has invested a 10.7% stake in Starz, according to Deadline. Allen’s Media Group includes 28 stations affiliated with ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox, operating in 21 US markets.

In 2025, Byron Allen announced that it was selling local television stations owned by his Allen Media Group (AMG), and Moelis & Co. is managing the deal. Allen said in a statement that it needed to pay its debt.

“We have received numerous inquiries and written offers for most of our television stations, and now is the time to explore getting a return on this phenomenal investment,” Allen, chairman and chief executive, said.

Allen Media Group acquiring Starz

Starz moved away from Lionsgate last May and has been operating independently since. It initially operated as a rival to networks such as HBO and Showtime but has turned to streaming, Deadline reports. Allen’s investment was completed by the executive’s private investment firm and family office, Allen Family Capital.

About Allen Media Group

Over the past six years, the company has invested more than $1 billion to acquire stations, aiming to become the largest independent television operator in the United States. Its portfolio includes 28 stations affiliated with ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox, operating in 21 US markets.

In January, AMG announced it would end weather-forecasting operations across its local television stations, following widespread viewer outrage.

Originally, AMG planned to streamline its weather forecasting operations to reduce costs. The cuts could have led to the termination of nearly 100 local forecasters across 36 outlets. However, after announcing the move, it faced severe backlash from the people served by AMG stations.

Image: Michael Tran