It seems like a long shot that Microsoft would throw its lot in with a likely loser. Still, by year's end, with its Windows operating system buffeted by a low-cost or free Google alternative, Microsoft may think twice about not having pursued a jewel like Time Warner.
Diva wars at NBC Universal
NBC Universal's Jeff Zucker, who last month pulled ahead of rivals such as sales chief Randy Falco to become the heir apparent to 62-year-old Chief Executive Bob Wright, may not have the throne locked up after all.
Beth Comstock is a dark horse in the race, according to sources close to Jeffrey Immelt, chief executive of General Electric Corp., NBC Universal's parent.
Comstock was promoted the same day Zucker was, although her elevation to president of digital media and market development earned hardly a postscript in most coverage about the management shuffle.
According to company insiders, Immelt had planned to give Comstock an even larger role: oversight of the all-important advertising and affiliate sales group. Her duties were scaled back, however, when Falco threatened to resign if he was forced to report to her.
But she retained one key perk: a direct report to Wright. Just like Zucker. Is there a turf battle in the offing? Stay tuned.
Jobs (as in Steve) for Disney chairman
Everyone believes that among Walt Disney Co. Chief Executive Bob Iger's New Year's resolutions, securing an extended distribution agreement with Pixar Animation Studios is near the top of the list. In fact, the new Disney CEO will consider -- albeit briefly -- an even bolder move: outright acquisition of the animation superpower behind "Toy Story" and "Finding Nemo."
Such a purchase would revive the luster of the Burbank-based entertainment giant's own animation division. It would also be a coup for Iger, given that friction between his predecessor, Michael Eisner, and Pixar Chairman Steve Jobs nearly drove Pixar from the Disney fold.
Ultimately, though, Iger's instinct for self-preservation will kill the deal as he weighs how Pixar's purchase price of nearly $10 billion might rattle Wall Street.
What might be harder to swallow for Iger is this: Jobs, who is also chief of Apple Computer Inc., will demand a seat on the Disney board, becoming the leading candidate to replace George Mitchell, who plans to retire as Disney chairman at the end of the year.
