Mari Group, the live-events firm established by Ari Emanuel - who also runs TKO - is reported to be in advanced negotiations to acquire ATG Entertainment, the operator of theatres in London’s West End, for about A34.5 billion (roughly $5.94 billion), according to people familiar with the matter.
Those sources said U.S.-based private equity owner Providence has entered into exclusive discussions to sell ATG to Emanuel’s company, and there are hopes among those involved that a transaction could be completed within the next month. The sources cautioned, however, that the schedule could change and that a definitive agreement has not yet been reached.
The reports note that Emanuel serves as chief executive of TKO, which owns the Ultimate Fighting Championship promotion. Earlier reporting indicated that Providence had been preparing ATG Entertainment for a potential sale, with that process described as being in its early stages by people familiar with the situation.
Observers framed the prospective sale as significant for the live entertainment sector, describing it as a potential sign of recovery for an industry that suffered heavy disruption during the pandemic lockdowns. The parties directly involved have not publicly commented on the negotiations: Providence and ATG did not immediately respond to requests for comment, and Mari declined to comment.
Transaction context and status
- The buyer in the reported talks is Mari Group, founded by Ari Emanuel, who is also CEO of TKO.
- The seller is Providence, the U.S.-based private equity owner of ATG Entertainment.
- Discussions are described as exclusive and advanced, with hopes of concluding within the next month, though timing might slip and no deal is confirmed.
Prior reporting
Previous coverage indicated that Providence had been preparing ATG Entertainment, previously known as Ambassador Theatre Group, for a possible sale and that the preparation was at an early stage. Those earlier accounts cited people familiar with the situation.
Currency note
For reference, the conversion used in the reporting was $1 = 0.7575 pounds.