Burbank, Calif. and Mumbai, India – The Walt Disney Company is acquiring a controlling interest in UTV, one of India’s premier media and entertainment companies. Additionally, UTV CEO Ronnie Screwvala has been named Managing Director, The Walt Disney Company India reporting to Andy Bird, Chairman, Walt Disney International. “Increasing our brand presence and reach in key international markets is a cornerstone of our growth strategy. This acquisition expands our footprint significantly and allows us to more effectively build, monetize and brand multi-platform franchises,” said Mr. Bird. Currently, UTV is distributed in 20 countries in seven languages, across 27 channels. Its six owned channels have emerged as the fastest growing cable and satellite network in India. As a result of this acquisition, Disney will be India’s leading film studio and will produce both UTV and Disney-branded local films.