Starz Posts Widening Q2 Net Loss After Exiting Universal Film Licensing Deal

Starz reported a Q2 net loss of $189.4 million, up 345% from a $42.5 million loss a year earlier, driven by a $151.2 million restructuring charge tied to its exit from a Pay-2 licensing deal for Universal theatrical films. Revenue fell 3.7% to $307.9 million, but CEO Jeff Hirsch said the Universal titles drove almost no viewership and that the exit frees up spending for library content with better engagement.