Barry Diller's People Withdraws $18 Billion MGM Resorts Buyout Bid

Image: New York-New York hotel in Las Vegas (Photo Credit: MGM Resorts International)
Image: New York-New York hotel in Las Vegas (Photo Credit: MGM Resorts International)
Patrick Clarke
by Patrick Clarke
Last updated: 8:35 AM ET, Thu September 24, 2026

Media mogul Barry Diller and People Inc. have withdrawn a bid to purchase all public shares of MGM Resorts International in a deal valued at more than $18 billion, according to Reuters.

People currently owns roughly a 27% stake in MGM Resorts after acquiring shares during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

"We didn't feel the mix was coming ⁠together in the way we had hoped and have decided not to pursue taking the company private at this time," Diller said.

In its own statement, MGM said that its "board remains excited to continue to lead MGM Resorts as a ‌standalone ⁠company."

Despite the bid withdraw, Diller said his New York-based digital media company is still interested ⁠in the possibility of a strategic transaction with MGM and looks forward to considering alternatives to a buyout, Reuters reported.

MGM is a huge player in Las Vegas, owning some of the city's most notable hotels, resorts and casinos. What's more, its properties account for 40% of the Las Vegas Strip. 


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Patrick Clarke

Patrick Clarke

Senior Editor

A Maryland native and wanderer who has lived across the U.S. from North Carolina to SoCal, Patrick Clarke graduated from Towson University with a B.S. in journalism. He previously worked for Bleacher

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