DigitalBridge Group and Crestview Partners Set to Privatize WideOpenWest in a $1.5 Billion Deal
WideOpenWest (WOW!), a prominent U.S. broadband provider, is set to be taken private in a $1.5 billion all-cash acquisition by investment funds affiliated with DigitalBridge Group, Inc. and Crestview Partners. The deal, announced in August 2025, will see public shareholders of WOW! receive $5.20 per share, representing a significant premium over the stock's current value.
The transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals and a formal vote by WideOpenWest's shareholders, is expected to close by the end of 2025 or in the first quarter of 2026.
Crestview Partners, which already owns about 37% of WideOpenWest's shares, has agreed to roll over its equity into the new ownership structure rather than cashing out. This move underscores the commitment of both parties to the long-term growth and development of WOW!.
The agreed price of $5.20 per share represents a 37.2% premium over the stock price unaffected by the initial offer in May 2024 and a 63% premium over the closing price on August 8, 2025.
Once the transaction is completed, WideOpenWest will operate as a privately held company, delisted from the New York Stock Exchange.
The deal terms include an all-cash purchase price of $5.20 per share for all outstanding shares not owned by Crestview. The enterprise value is approximately $1.5 billion. Crestview Partners will be the largest shareholder rolling over its stake into the new entity jointly owned with DigitalBridge.
There will be no immediate changes for WideOpenWest employees, with titles, compensation, and benefits remaining for at least 12 months post-close. Severance provisions for non-cause terminations related to the deal have also been put in place.
Both DigitalBridge and Crestview intend to invest in network expansion, technology upgrades, and customer service improvements to strengthen WideOpenWest's position as a provider of fast, reliable, and affordable broadband.
This strategic move to privatize WideOpenWest is seen as an opportunity to invest and grow the company outside of public market pressures, with a premium valuation and a clear timeline aiming for completion by early 2026.
Teresa Elder, WOW! CEO, expressed her excitement about the deal, stating, "WOW!'s next chapter with DigitalBridge and Crestview will bring new and exciting opportunities to our stakeholders and enhance our position as a trusted provider of fast, reliable, and affordable broadband solutions."
Jonathan Friesel, Senior Managing Director at DigitalBridge, added, "We plan to support growth by expanding and upgrading WOW!'s networks, adopting new technologies, and maintaining competitive pricing."
The acquisition is a significant event in the broadband industry, reflecting the interest of private equity firms in long-term investments in digital infrastructure assets that may be overlooked by public markets. WideOpenWest shares closed at $4.98 in aftermarkets on Friday, having lost over 30% of its value this year.
[1] WideOpenWest Press Release, August 2025 [2] DigitalBridge Press Release, August 2025 [3] Crestview Partners Press Release, August 2025 [4] Broadband Breakfast, August 2025 [5] Fierce Telecom, August 2025
The all-cash acquisition of WideOpenWest by investment funds is expected to bolster finance for network expansion, technology upgrades, and customer service improvements. Following the deal's closure, WideOpenWest will no longer be listed on the New York Stock Exchange.
