Bahakel Communications and Gray Media Announce Sale of WBBJ 7 in Jackson, Tennessee

Core Viewpoint - Bahakel Communications has agreed to sell its ABC affiliate WBBJ-TV in Jackson, Tennessee, to Gray Media, marking a strategic move for both companies [1][3]. Company Overview - Bahakel Communications, founded in 1947, is a family-owned media company based in Charlotte, North Carolina, operating television and radio stations, and known for its local broadcasting and digital marketing services [5]. - Gray Media, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, is the largest owner of top-rated local television stations in the U.S., serving 113 television markets and reaching approximately 37% of U.S. television households [6]. Transaction Details - WBBJ 7 has been the most-watched local news station in its market for 70 years and will enhance Gray's portfolio of local news stations in the region [2]. - The acquisition is expected to be immediately free cash flow accretive for Gray, which plans to fund the purchase with cash on hand [3]. - The transaction is anticipated to close in the first quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals [3].