AMCX - AMC Networks gains amid report it received approach from Roku 18 months ago

AMC Networks ( NASDAQ: AMCX ) rose 2.7% amid a report that Roku ( NASDAQ: ROKU ) and a private equity firm approached the cable network about a takeover 18 months.

Streaming device maker Roku ( ROKU ) and financial sponsor Providence Global approached AMC Networks ( AMCX ) about a possible purchase about 18 months ago, though the  talks stalled, according to a WSJ report, which cited people familiar.

Sony Pictures Entertainment ( SONY ), Lions Gate ( LGF.A ) and PE firms Apollo Global ( APO ) and Blackstone ( BX ) were among other companies that discussed possible deals for all or parts of AMC Networks ( AMCX ), according to the WSJ report, which was mainly about finding a new CEO for the cable network. Roku shares jumped 8%.

Kristin Dolan, James Dolan's wife, who is now separated from her husband, is said to be a potential candidate to replace Christina Spade as CEO, according to the report.

AMC Networks ( AMCX ) announced in December that the board appointed James Dolan as interim executive chairman of the company, following the departure of former CEO Christina Spade.

AMC Networks ( AMCX ) is scheduled to report Q4 results on Friday.

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