The deal, which makes Mr. Lucas a major Disney shareholder, extends the acquisition strategy that Disney CEO Robert Iger has pursued from the beginning of his tenure, when he paid $7.4 billion for Pixar Animation in 2006. In 2009 Disney acquired Marvel Entertainment, the comics giant behind "The Avengers" and other superhero properties, for more than $4 billion.
"Lucasfilm fits perfectly with Disney's strategic priorities," Mr. Iger said, adding that the company plans to make new "Star Wars" programming for its Disney XD cable channel, which is aimed at boys.
"I've always believed that 'Star Wars' could live beyond me, and I thought it was important to set up the transition during my lifetime," Mr. Lucas said in a statement. "Disney's reach and experience give Lucasfilm the opportunity to blaze new trails in film, television, interactive media, theme parks, live entertainment and consumer products," he said. [source WSJ]
Or as the Wall Street Journal puts it, Mickey and Darth to JOIN FORCES