UNIVERSAL BUYS OUT VIACOM'S STAKE IN USA NETWORK FOR $1.7B

          Viacom Inc. has agreed to sell its 50% stake in USA
     Networks to partner Seagram Co.'s Universal Studios for
     $1.7B, according to Eben Shapiro of the WALL STREET JOURNAL. 
     The deal gives Universal "complete control" of cable
     networks USA and the Sci-Fi Channel.  Seagram Vice Chair
     Robert Matschullat: "USA is not the endgame.  We could buy
     another cable network to go with this.  We have the ability
     to do more."  Universal Studios Chair & CEO Frank Biondi 
     Jr. said USA's schedule, which includes sports coverage such
     as the U.S. Tennis Open, requires only "fine-tuning.  You
     won't see massive programming changes" (WALL STREET JOURNAL,
     9/23). The HOLLYWOOD REPORTER's Andrew Collier reports that
     Universal "expects to retain current management," including
     USA Chair & CEO Kay Koplovitz (HOLLYWOOD REPORTER, 9/23).