The Walt Disney Company Disney Media Networks, and Walt Disney Direct-to-Consumer and International. Disney also owns and operates the ABC broadcast network; cable television networks such as Disney Channel, ESPN, A&E Networks, and Freeform; publishing, merchandising, music, and theater divisions; and Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, a group of 14 theme parks around the world. The company has been a component of the Dow Jones Industrial Average since 1991. Mickey Mouse was created in 1928 and is the signature mascot and emblem for Disney and one of the world's most recognizable characters. On December 14, 2017, Disney announced an agreement to acquire 21st Century
The Walt Disney Company Italy The Walt Disney Company Italy The Walt Disney Company Italia S.r.l. (formerly called The Walt Disney Company Italia S.p.A) is The Walt Disney Company's Italian division and one of The Walt Disney Company's European divisions. The company was founded on 8 May 1938 as Creazioni Walt Disney S.A.I. The company owns and operates Disney Channel Italy, Disney in English, and more. Comics are also published by the company as well. In 2009, Jetix Europe sold 2 channels to Switchover Media. The television division of the company produced series for Disney Channel Italy such as: "Quelli dell'intervallo" ("As the Bell Rings")