Comcast reports 4.4% drop in Universal theme parks revenue and 17.1% fall in adjusted EBITDA for Q3

Comcast said its Universal theme parks segment generated $2.6 billion of revenue in the July‑September quarter, a 4.4% decline year‑over‑year, and adjusted EBITDA fell 17.1% to $780 million. The slowdown was linked to lower admissions at Universal Orlando and Japan and to promotional activity, as well as ride‑capacity issues at the newly opened Epic Universe. Management expects the softness to persist through Halloween and into the first half of 2027 before growth resumes in the second half of 2027, and announced new leadership appointments to help drive recovery.

The company warned that the continued weakness in Orlando will likely suppress earnings and cash flow through early 2027. The delayed return to growth may affect investor expectations for the segment’s contribution to overall profit.

  • 1Revenue for the Theme Parks segment was $2.6 billion, down 4.4% from the prior year.
  • 2Adjusted EBITDA for the segment was $780 million, down 17.1% from $940 million a year earlier.
  • 3The revenue decline reflects lower park admissions and increased promotional activity.
  • 4Management expects the Orlando slowdown to last through Halloween and into the first half of 2027, with a return to growth in the second half of 2027.
  • 5Luc Bondar was appointed Chief Brand and Commercial Officer and Randy Culbertson as Chief Business Officer for Universal Destinations & Experiences.
  • 6Comcast anticipates a charge of over $1 billion in the fourth quarter related to transformation efforts.

Sources