NBC, short for the National Broadcasting Corporation, is a key player in the American media landscape. But who owns NBC today?
The ownership structure of NBC has evolved over time, with various corporate giants having a stake in its control. Understanding the current ownership provides insight into how this iconic network operates and makes decisions.
History of NBC
NBC was founded in 1926 by the Radio Corporation of America (RCA). It was the first major American television network and quickly became a leader in radio and television broadcasting.
It underwent several transformations, with various mergers and acquisitions shaping its current form.
In 1986, the General Electric (GE) Company acquired RCA, thus gaining control of NBC.
Later, in 2004, GE sold a significant portion of NBC to Vivendi, a French multinational mass media company. This led to the formation of NBCUniversal, a subsidiary of General Electric, but Vivendi also played a major role in the network’s ownership structure.
In 2011, Comcast, an American telecommunications conglomerate, acquired a controlling stake in NBCUniversal, further changing the ownership landscape.
Who Owns NBC?
Currently, NBC is primarily owned by Comcast Corporation, a massive telecommunications conglomerate.
Comcast acquired a 51% stake in NBCUniversal in 2011. It increased its stake to full ownership in 2013. As a result, Comcast has complete control over NBCUniversal including its television, movie, and theme park operations.
The controlling stake gives Comcast significant influence over NBC’s programming decisions and business strategy.
Comcast Corporation (100% Ownership)
As of now, Comcast owns 100% of NBCUniversal. This means that Comcast holds all the shares in NBCUniversal and has full control over its operations. The company’s acquisition of NBCUniversal in 2013 marked a significant shift in the ownership structure, consolidating power under Comcast’s leadership.
Although Comcast owns 100% of NBCUniversal, it’s important to recognize the role that institutional investors play in the ownership of Comcast itself. These institutional shareholders hold large stakes in Comcast and can influence corporate decisions, including the strategy for NBCUniversal.
Here’s a list of the major shareholders of Comcast (read more in this article to find out the complete list of Comcast shareholders):
Brian L. Roberts (Chairman & CEO)
Brian Roberts is the largest individual shareholder in Comcast, holding around 1% of the company’s shares through direct and indirect holdings. As the Chairman and CEO of Comcast, Roberts has a significant influence on the company’s direction. His leadership has been pivotal in Comcast’s expansion, including the acquisition of NBCUniversal in 2013. While his ownership stake is small relative to institutional investors, Roberts’ control over Comcast and its subsidiaries, including NBCUniversal, means that he holds substantial decision-making power. As the face of Comcast, his vision and strategic direction largely shape how NBC and NBCUniversal evolve in the media and entertainment sectors.
The Vanguard Group
The Vanguard Group is one of the largest institutional investors in Comcast, holding approximately 8-10% of Comcast’s outstanding shares. Vanguard is a passive investment firm, meaning it holds these shares as part of its broader investment strategy rather than seeking to directly intervene in company operations. However, with such a large stake in Comcast, Vanguard’s influence is still considerable. The firm can exercise its voting rights during shareholder meetings, helping guide strategic decisions at the highest levels. Vanguard’s investment philosophy focuses on long-term growth, and its influence is typically seen in the company’s efforts to maximize shareholder value and maintain financial stability.
BlackRock, Inc.
BlackRock, another major institutional shareholder, owns around 6-7% of Comcast. As one of the largest asset management firms globally, BlackRock has a significant influence over Comcast’s corporate strategy, even though it does not manage day-to-day operations. BlackRock’s role in Comcast’s shareholder base is primarily as a passive investor, but it can exert substantial influence through its voting power during Comcast’s annual meetings. BlackRock’s focus on maximizing shareholder returns aligns with the long-term goals of Comcast, and the firm is likely to have a say in major decisions that could affect the profitability of NBCUniversal, including potential mergers, acquisitions, and capital investments.
Berkshire Hathaway
Berkshire Hathaway, led by renowned investor Warren Buffett, holds a stake in Comcast of around 3-4%. While smaller than Vanguard’s or BlackRock’s holdings, Berkshire Hathaway’s ownership is still significant. Buffett’s firm is known for its long-term, value-oriented investment strategy. Berkshire Hathaway’s influence on Comcast is largely strategic, as it has a strong reputation for advocating for shareholder interests and financial discipline. While Berkshire Hathaway may not directly influence NBCUniversal’s day-to-day activities, its investment in Comcast provides it with indirect influence over the network’s direction, particularly in ensuring that the company remains financially strong and continues to maximize shareholder value.
T. Rowe Price
T. Rowe Price is another institutional investor in Comcast, holding around 4-5% of the company’s shares. Known for its active management style, T. Rowe Price tends to take a more hands-on approach with its investments. While its stake in Comcast is not as large as Vanguard’s or BlackRock’s, T. Rowe Price still holds a substantial amount of influence. The firm’s voting power and engagement with Comcast’s corporate governance allow it to play a role in guiding decisions about the company’s future, including any significant moves involving NBCUniversal. T. Rowe Price’s focus on growth-oriented investments means it likely supports strategies that enhance Comcast’s competitive position, including its control of NBC.
State Street Global Advisors
State Street Global Advisors holds approximately 4% of Comcast’s shares, making it one of the notable institutional investors. As with other institutional investors, State Street Global Advisors’ primary role is to influence Comcast’s strategic decisions through its voting rights rather than managing daily operations. State Street is known for advocating for sound corporate governance practices and long-term value creation. Through its significant shareholding, State Street can help shape decisions on major corporate initiatives, including those impacting NBCUniversal’s operations. Its involvement provides additional oversight to ensure that Comcast remains focused on its financial objectives, ultimately benefiting shareholders and supporting the broader goals of NBCUniversal.
Fidelity Management & Research
Fidelity Management & Research holds around 3% of Comcast’s outstanding shares. Fidelity is one of the largest asset managers in the world and plays a significant role in shaping corporate strategies through its investments. Though its stake in Comcast is smaller than other institutional investors, Fidelity’s influence is still substantial given its extensive experience and investment expertise. Fidelity’s involvement in Comcast’s corporate governance ensures that the company’s strategy is aligned with shareholder interests. The firm’s commitment to maximizing returns through careful financial management impacts decisions related to NBCUniversal, especially in areas like budgeting, acquisitions, and content investments.
Individual Shareholders
Individual retail investors collectively hold around 20-25% of Comcast’s shares. These shareholders typically purchase Comcast stock through brokerage accounts, contributing to the public trading of the company. While individual investors have limited direct control over the operations of NBCUniversal, their voting rights allow them to have a say in high-level decisions that affect the company’s overall direction. Their influence is often more indirect, but large movements of public investors, such as shifts in stock price driven by market trends, can impact Comcast’s corporate priorities. While individual shareholders cannot directly manage NBCUniversal, their collective ownership plays a role in shaping the company’s financial performance and market strategy.
Who Controls NBC?
NBC is controlled by the executives at Comcast Corporation. The key decision-makers are at the highest levels of Comcast, with Brian Roberts, the CEO of Comcast, serving as the ultimate authority. These executives guide the network’s programming decisions, business strategies, and partnerships. Although NBCUniversal operates as a separate entity within Comcast, its management is deeply influenced by Comcast’s overarching goals.
Comcast Executive Leadership
The ultimate control over NBCUniversal resides with the top executives at Comcast Corporation. These executives oversee the broader operations of Comcast, including NBCUniversal. As the parent company, Comcast’s senior leadership guides all strategic decisions that affect NBC, from programming decisions to financial strategies.
Brian L. Roberts (Chairman & CEO of Comcast)
Brian L. Roberts is the primary figure who controls NBCUniversal. As the Chairman and CEO of Comcast, Roberts holds the most influential position in the company. He is responsible for setting the strategic direction of Comcast, including its media holdings like NBCUniversal. While NBCUniversal operates somewhat independently, its overall direction, financial decisions, and high-level strategy are deeply influenced by Roberts’ leadership. His role allows him to steer the company’s media portfolio, which includes NBC, Universal Pictures, Telemundo, and other NBCUniversal assets.
Key Executives Reporting to Brian Roberts
While Brian Roberts holds the most control, he is supported by a team of key executives within Comcast, who manage the day-to-day operations of NBCUniversal. These executives include:
- Dave Scott (President of NBCUniversal Media)
As the President of NBCUniversal Media, Dave Scott oversees the company’s media operations, including the NBC network. His responsibilities include managing NBCUniversal’s television and film assets and ensuring the alignment of NBC’s content strategy with Comcast’s overarching goals. - Cesar Conde (Chairman of NBCUniversal News Group)
As Chairman of NBCUniversal News Group, Cesar Conde controls NBC News, MSNBC, and Telemundo Networks. His role is vital in shaping NBC’s news content and strategy, ensuring that NBC’s news operations align with the broader goals of NBCUniversal. - Steve Burke (Former CEO of NBCUniversal)
Although Steve Burke stepped down in 2020, his tenure as CEO of NBCUniversal was pivotal. During his time, Burke was responsible for shaping the network’s business strategy, overseeing content, and managing NBCUniversal’s transition in the evolving media landscape. Although Burke no longer holds the role, his past leadership is significant in the control of NBC.
Comcast’s Board of Directors
The Board of Directors at Comcast plays a vital role in controlling NBCUniversal. The board is responsible for overseeing the broader direction of the company, approving major decisions, and ensuring that the management team is executing its strategy effectively. While the day-to-day decisions about NBC are handled by the senior executives, the Board provides strategic oversight and approval for key initiatives.
Key Members of Comcast’s Board of Directors
- Brian Roberts serves as the Chairman of the Board, reinforcing his control over Comcast and its subsidiaries, including NBCUniversal.
- Other board members are typically senior leaders from diverse industries, many of whom have experience in media, finance, and corporate governance. They play a key role in ensuring that Comcast’s business, including its control of NBCUniversal, is operating in shareholders’ best interests.
The Role of Comcast’s Major Shareholders
While Comcast is the sole owner of NBCUniversal, the major institutional investors (like Vanguard, BlackRock, and Berkshire Hathaway) influence the company’s control through their shareholder votes. These investors do not directly control NBC’s operations but can influence high-level decisions by exercising their voting rights during annual meetings. For instance, they may vote on executive compensation, corporate governance issues, or even approve or reject strategic moves like acquisitions that affect NBCUniversal’s future.
However, it’s important to note that while these shareholders have a say in the company’s overall direction, they do not directly manage the operations of NBC. Their influence is more indirect, focused on ensuring that Comcast is achieving strong financial results and maximizing shareholder value.
Comcast’s Influence Over NBC Content and Programming
Although NBC operates as part of NBCUniversal, the decisions about NBC’s programming, content acquisition, and distribution are made by the senior executives at NBCUniversal, led by Comcast’s executive team. Under Brian Roberts’ leadership, Comcast has shaped NBC’s content strategy to align with both traditional television and the growing demand for digital content through streaming platforms like Peacock, NBCUniversal’s own streaming service.
Control of NBC’s Content Strategy
The executives at NBCUniversal, including the heads of programming, marketing, and network operations, control the content seen on NBC. While the CEO of Comcast has the final say on larger strategic shifts, such as entering new media markets, the day-to-day content decisions for NBC lie within the hands of the leadership at NBCUniversal. This includes overseeing NBC’s primetime lineup, news, sports coverage, and long-term partnerships.
Comcast’s Shareholder Control vs. NBCUniversal’s Operations
Even though Comcast’s major shareholders do not directly control NBC’s content, these investors influence the financial and corporate strategies that ultimately affect NBCUniversal’s operations. Comcast’s board of directors, consisting of both independent directors and those from major shareholder groups, makes the final decisions on strategic initiatives, including decisions impacting NBC.
The structure of Comcast’s shareholders means that while external investors hold significant equity in the parent company, NBCUniversal remains firmly controlled by Comcast executives and management, with Brian Roberts leading the way. The shareholders provide oversight and input through regular meetings and voting processes but do not manage the day-to-day operations of NBC.
Annual Revenue and Net Worth of NBC
In 2024, Comcast Corporation reported annual revenues of approximately $123.73 billion, marking a year-over-year growth of 1.78%. In the fourth quarter ending December 31, 2024, the company achieved revenues of $31.9 billion, reflecting a 2.12% increase compared to the same period in the previous year.
As of April 2025, Comcast’s market capitalization, often considered a proxy for a company’s net worth, stood at approximately $138.8 billion. This valuation represents a decrease of about 19.45% compared to the previous year, highlighting the dynamic nature of the company’s market valuation.
NBC Market Share and Competitors
NBC commands a substantial share of the U.S. television market, particularly in terms of network television viewership. In the 2023-2024 television season, NBC consistently ranked among the top four major networks in the U.S., alongside ABC, CBS, and Fox. Its market share fluctuates based on programming, time slots, and competition.
NBC faces fierce competition from other major networks like CBS, ABC, and Fox, which have similar programming formats. Additionally, NBC competes with streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime, which continue to erode traditional television viewership. Despite this competition, NBC remains one of the most influential players in American television.
Brands Owned by NBC
NBCUniversal owns several major brands and companies, which play a critical role in its diverse operations. These brands span across television, film, and even theme parks:
NBC (National Broadcasting Corporation)
NBC is the flagship broadcast network of NBCUniversal, known for its wide range of programming, including primetime shows, news, sports, and reality TV. The network has been a major player in U.S. television since its founding in 1926, and it continues to maintain a significant share of the national broadcast television audience. NBC’s programming includes iconic shows like “Saturday Night Live,” “The Voice,” and major events such as the Olympics and Sunday Night Football.
Key Features: NBC is a leader in both entertainment and news, with a legacy of producing top-tier content. It has a powerful broadcast network, with local affiliates across the United States and strong advertising revenue.
Telemundo
Telemundo is a Spanish-language television network, providing entertainment, news, and sports content for the U.S. Hispanic audience. It is the second-largest Spanish-language network in the United States, behind Univision, and is a key player in the growing Hispanic market. Telemundo offers a mix of telenovelas, news programming, sports (including the FIFA World Cup), and reality shows.
Key Features: Telemundo’s extensive reach in the U.S. Hispanic market allows NBCUniversal to tap into one of the fastest-growing demographics in the country. It is a significant source of revenue from advertising and branded content targeted to Hispanic viewers.
Universal Pictures
Universal Pictures is one of the major film studios owned by NBCUniversal. It has produced and distributed numerous blockbuster films, including franchises such as “Jurassic Park,” “Fast & Furious,” and “Despicable Me.” Universal is also known for its successful partnership with Illumination Entertainment, the studio behind the “Minions” franchise.
Key Features: Universal Pictures plays a major role in the film production landscape, delivering high-grossing films to global audiences. The studio benefits from NBCUniversal’s ability to cross-promote films across its vast media properties, including TV networks and streaming platforms.
Peacock
Peacock is NBCUniversal’s streaming service, which launched in 2020 to compete with other major streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+. The service offers a mix of NBCUniversal’s content, including popular television shows, movies, news programming, live sports, and exclusive original series. Some of its notable content includes “The Office,” “Parks and Recreation,” and original series like “Dr. Death.”
Key Features: Peacock provides a flexible streaming model with both free and premium subscription tiers. It is a growing competitor in the U.S. streaming market, focusing on leveraging NBCUniversal’s existing content library and producing new exclusive programming.
USA Network
USA Network is a cable television network owned by NBCUniversal, known for its original programming and a mix of scripted series, sports, and movies. Over the years, USA has produced hit shows like “Burn Notice,” “Psych,” and “Mr. Robot.” The network continues to have a strong presence in the U.S. cable TV landscape.
Key Features: USA Network appeals to a broad audience with its blend of entertainment, drama, and action programming. It remains a staple in the cable TV space, with a robust slate of original content and partnerships with major TV networks.
CNBC
CNBC is NBCUniversal’s business news network, focusing on financial news, market analysis, and global economic trends. It is one of the leading networks for financial coverage, attracting viewers who are interested in stock market updates, corporate news, and business strategies.
Key Features: CNBC is a key player in the financial news market, providing live coverage of markets, interviews with business leaders, and in-depth reports. The network’s appeal lies in its specialized content and strong brand in the financial sector.
Syfy
Syfy is a cable network owned by NBCUniversal, catering to fans of science fiction, fantasy, and horror genres. The network is known for original series like “The Expanse” and “The Magicians,” as well as movies and re-runs of classic shows. Syfy has carved out a niche audience that is passionate about speculative fiction.
Key Features: Syfy is known for its cult following in the science fiction and fantasy communities. The network’s programming is primarily targeted at enthusiasts of these genres, offering a mix of movies, series, and original content.
Bravo
Bravo is an entertainment cable network owned by NBCUniversal, known for its focus on reality TV and pop culture. The network has become synonymous with its successful franchises such as “The Real Housewives,” “Top Chef,” and “Watch What Happens Live.” Bravo’s programming primarily attracts female viewers, but it has a broad audience appeal.
Key Features: Bravo has made its mark with reality television, particularly in the areas of lifestyle, cooking, and social issues. It is a significant revenue generator for NBCUniversal through its popular reality TV franchises.
E!
E! is an entertainment network that specializes in celebrity news, reality TV, and fashion content. Its shows include “Keeping Up with the Kardashians,” “E! News,” and various red carpet specials and celebrity-driven programming. E! is a go-to network for pop culture and entertainment enthusiasts.
Key Features: E!’s brand is centered around celebrity culture and real-time entertainment coverage. The network capitalizes on high-profile personalities and events, offering viewers exclusive content and insider access to Hollywood.
Universal Parks & Resorts
Universal Parks & Resorts is a theme park division owned by NBCUniversal. It operates some of the world’s most famous amusement parks, including Universal Studios locations in Hollywood, Orlando, Singapore, and Japan. The parks feature thrilling rides, live entertainment, and immersive experiences based on Universal’s popular films and characters.
Key Features: Universal Parks & Resorts offers a global portfolio of world-class theme parks and resorts. Its attractions, such as “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” and “Jurassic Park,” draw millions of visitors annually, generating substantial revenue for NBCUniversal.
Final Thoughts
NBC is owned by Comcast Corporation, which has complete control over the network’s operations. As one of the most powerful media companies in the world, Comcast’s ownership of NBC has shaped the network’s growth and influence. With its rich history, vast portfolio of brands, and strong market presence, NBC continues to be a dominant force in the television and entertainment industry.
FAQs
Who owns NBC now?
NBC is currently owned by Comcast Corporation, which acquired full control over NBCUniversal in 2013.
When did Comcast acquire NBCUniversal?
Comcast first acquired a controlling stake in NBCUniversal in 2011 and then fully took over in 2013.
What brands does NBC own?
NBC owns several major brands, including Universal Pictures, Telemundo, NBC Sports, and Universal Parks & Resorts.
What is NBC’s market share?
NBC consistently ranks among the top four major U.S. television networks, competing with ABC, CBS, and Fox, while also facing competition from streaming platforms.