Kartoon Studios Sets the Stage for a New Era in Entertainment with Winnie-The-Pooh Project

June 26, 2024, 3:35 am
Kartoon Studios (TOON)
Kartoon Studios (TOON)
AdTechB2CContentContent DistributionE-commerceEntertainmentLEDMediaNetworksProduct
Location: United States, California, Beverly Hills
Employees: 51-200
Total raised: $30M
Kartoon Studios, a prominent player in the entertainment industry, has recently unveiled its ambitious project, "Kartoon Studio’s Winnie-The-Pooh," supported by a substantial $30 million in non-dilutive production funding. This announcement marks a significant milestone for the company, signaling its commitment to delivering high-quality content to audiences worldwide.

The team assembled for this project boasts a lineup of seasoned executives, including Ryan Gagerman and Michael Maliani, who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. Gagerman, known for his successful stints at Paramount Pictures, Electronic Arts, and DIC Entertainment, will spearhead the global consumer products business for "Kartoon Studio’s Winnie-The-Pooh." His track record of driving revenue and building iconic brands positions him as a key player in the success of this venture.

Meanwhile, multiple Emmy Award-winning director Michael Maliani is set to direct the animated feature, infusing his creative vision and storytelling prowess into the project. Joining him is Sam Morrison, a talented writer with a proven track record in children's entertainment, who will serve as the Head Writer for the production. Together, they aim to bring A.A. Milne's beloved characters to life in a fresh and engaging way.

Paul Robinson, a former Managing Director of Disney Channel Worldwide and current President of Kartoon Channel! Worldwide & Head of International Sales, will lead the charge on international sales, ensuring that "Kartoon Studio’s Winnie-The-Pooh" reaches audiences across the globe. With a focus on building brand awareness and driving consumer engagement, Robinson's expertise will be instrumental in expanding the reach of this timeless classic.

In a statement, Steven A. Horowitz, Sr. Managing Director of the Winnie the Pooh SPV and Catalyst Venture Partners, emphasized the importance of established brands and compelling storytelling in today's entertainment landscape. He highlighted the team's dedication to creating content that resonates with families and captures the essence of animation's enduring appeal.

Chairman and CEO of Kartoon Studios, Andy Heyward, expressed his confidence in the team assembled for this project, citing Ryan Gagerman's past success in launching the global phenomenon "Strawberry Shortcake" as a testament to his leadership abilities. Heyward also praised Paul Robinson's industry expertise and international acumen, underscoring the importance of a strong team in driving the success of a project of this scale.

As Kartoon Studios gears up for the premiere of "Kartoon Studio’s Winnie-The-Pooh" on Amazon Prime Video in 2025, anticipation is building for what promises to be a captivating and heartwarming adaptation of a timeless classic. With a focus on innovative storytelling, engaging characters, and a global distribution strategy, Kartoon Studios is poised to make a significant impact on the entertainment landscape with this project. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting venture.