In a move that came as a big surprise the Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS) has agreed to acquire Marvel Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE:MVL) in a stock and cash transaction, the companies announced today.

“…the transaction… is subject to clearance under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act, certain non-United States merger control regulations, effectiveness of a registration statement with respect to Disney shares issued in the transaction and other customary closing conditions. The agreement will require the approval of Marvel shareholders.”

So… yes, really, though you can see it isn’t done yet.

• Check Comic Book Resources for some recent updates, and Publishers Weekly for a recent roundup of news related to the deal.