Below is Carl Icahn’s statement from this morning expressing his support for a proposed Lionsgate/MGM merger. Late Monday, Lionsgate sent a proposal to MGM expressing support of a ”business combination” after what it called “detailed” discussions with Icahn. All of this after rebuffing Icahn’s attempts for so long. This latest development comes just days after MGM  said it was planning a merger with Spyglass wherein Gary Barber and Roger Birnbaum would be the new bosses.

“We are holders of significant positions in both Lions Gate stock and MGM debt. Today, Lions Gate has made a proposal to combine these two companies. We believe that this combination of Lions Gate and MGM would enhance value for all constituencies and we believe this proposal as submitted is far better for MGM holders than the current proposal to combine MGM with Spyglass. In addition, we also believe such a combination transaction would enhance the value of Lions Gate shares. However, we intend to continue to pursue our lawsuits regarding Lions Gate’s recent dilutive transaction with Mark Rachesky. Whether or not we prevail in those lawsuits, we intend to continue to support a combination of Lions Gate and MGM. Our support for this combination is conditioned on the combined company having satisfactory corporate governance provisions.”