Paramount Begins Laying Off 15% Of U.S. Staff; Co-CEOs Tell Staffers Media Company Has Reached 'An Inflection Point' As 'Industry Continues To Evolve'

Paramount Global has officially initiated long-planned layoffs as it looks to reduce its U.S.-based workforce by 15%.

The first of three stages of staff reductions is beginning today, with 90% of the total cuts to be completed by the end of September. George Cheeks, Chris McCarthy and Brian Robbins, the three members of the Office of the CEO, laid out details this morning in a memo to employees (read it below).

“The industry continues to evolve, and Paramount is at an inflection point where changes must be made to strengthen our business,” the co-CEOs wrote.

“We know that having to part ways with teammates whose contributions have been instrumental to our success is incredibly hard,” they added. “In partnership with our HR leaders, we are committed to providing support to employees transitioning on from Paramount and to our teams who will need to adapt to these changes.”

Paramount reported having 21,900 full- and part-time employees in 33 countries globally at the end of 2023, as well as 4,500 project-based staffers. Last February, the company let go of 3% of employees. The current rounds are expected to see up to 3,000 more employees depart.

The cuts are part of a corporate effort to generate annual run-rate cost savings of $500 million. Paramount implemented the February layoffs as it began to confront a number of financial challenges, mainly the impact of its declining cable TV business. Last week, in reporting second-quarter earnings, the company took a $6 billion write-down on its cable networks, joining industry peer Warner Bros Discovery in acknowledging the value destruction of that asset class.

The biggest concession to industry pressures has been to put the company up for sale. Skydance Media is poised to take control of Paramount in a merger to be completed by the first part of 2025. David Ellison’s company made multiple overtures during a seven-month period of negotiations, finally prevailing with a plan to invest $8 billion in a two-step takeover. It will first acquire controlling shareholder National Amusements Inc. before executing a merger with Paramount, with RedBird Capital and Oracle billionaire Larry Ellison among the financial backers.

During a call with Wall Street analysts to discuss the quarterly results, McCarthy said marketing and communications would be one of two areas to be targeted in the reductions. The other will be support functions including legal, finance and other areas of the company’s administrative operations.

Chatter had been mounting internally before official word came confirming the August 13 start of the cutbacks. This is a momentous month for Paramount, with layoffs beginning after earnings and ahead of the August 21 expiration of the “go-shop” period in the Skydance proposal. Other bidders have had 45 days to come forward. If no other compelling offer emerges and wins support from Paramount’s board, the Skydance transaction will proceed to a regulatory review.

Here is the full memo:

Hi Everyone,

In June, we laid out our Strategic Plan to return Paramount to profitable growth, which includes streamlining the organization and cutting costs by $500 million on an annualized basis. As we continue to advance our plan, we announced on our earnings call last week that we will be reducing our US-based workforce by approximately 15%, focusing on redundant functions and streamlining corporate teams.

This process will take place in three phases, starting today and continuing through the end of the year. We expect 90% of these actions to be complete by the end of September.

We know that having to part ways with teammates whose contributions have been instrumental to our success is incredibly hard. In partnership with our HR leaders, we are committed to providing support to employees transitioning on from Paramount and to our teams who will need to adapt to these changes. During this time, we ask that everyone please be mindful of how this news may affect your colleagues and offer support to those who need it. 

The industry continues to evolve, and Paramount is at an inflection point where changes must be made to strengthen our business. And while these actions are often difficult, we are confident in our direction forward. We understand that you may have questions about next steps, and while we may not be able to provide all the answers at this time, we will continue to update you on our progress. 

We remain ever grateful for your hard work in delivering results for our audiences and communities.

Best,

George, Chris & Brian

Stream a Mountain of Entertainment, including your Nickelodeon favorites on Paramount+! Try it FREE at ParamountPlus.com!

More Nick: Paramount Plus Expands Kids and Family Programming with New Slate of Films and Series from Nickelodeon Studios!

Originally published: August 13, 2024.

Original source: Deadline.

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Paramount Television Studios Shutting Down Amid Cutbacks

There have been two major rounds of layoffs at Paramount Global this year, with Paramount Television Studios as a primary target in both. After its team was gutted in the February 13 cuts, as part of today’s (Aug. 13) reductions, the division is being shuttered altogether. It will cease operations after 11 years at the end of this week. Paramount TV Studios President Nicole Clemens and CBS President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) George Cheeks, who oversees the division, announced the decision in separate memos (You can read both below.)

'First Wives Club,' 'The Offer,' 'Spiderwick Chronicles' and 'Time Bandits' | Everett Collection

PTVS’ shutdown will result in the exit of 20-30 employees. All current PTVS series and development projects will be folded into CBS Studios.

“To be clear, this is not a decision based on how PTVS performed. This move is the result of significant changes in the TV and streaming marketplace and the need to streamline our company,” Cheeks said. “Under Nicole’s leadership, this studio consistently punched above its weight in attracting top storytellers and stars to create best-in-class series. I want to thank every PTVS employee for shepherding a slate of shows that helped usher Paramount into the streaming era.”

Headed into the current wave of layoffs that will impact 15% of Paramount Global’s U.S. workforce over the next few months for $500M in savings, there had been chatter about Paramount TV Studios as a potential casualty following a string of downsizing/consolidation moves since CBS Studios and Paramount TV Studios were put together under Cheeks’ purview in the fall of 2022.

Both Cheeks and Clemens tried to assuage fears at the time by assuring PTVS staff that the division would remain independent from the larger CBS Studios as the two combined support operations by centralizing finance, law, production and casting. The same year, Paramount TV Studios absorbed Paramount+’s scripted originals team. (Word is more P+ layoffs may be coming after Labor Day.)

In the most recent round of layoffs in February, PTVS consolidated development and current under Head of Development Jana Helman, with a slew of senior programming executives leaving. It also dissolved/downsized communications, marketing and post-production which are now handled by CBS Studios. Prior to that, Clemens, a well-liked veteran executive, revealed that the studio was no longer going to produce limited series except for third-party buyers.

Also possibly factoring into the decision to shut down PTVS is Paramount Global’s pending merger with Skydance whose television division is very similar in scope and output to PTVS. The two companies have collaborated on such series as Reacher, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan and the upcoming Cross.

Other notable series produced by PTVS over the years include 13 Reasons Why, The Alienist, Station Eleven, Time Bandits, and The Spiderwick Chronicles.

Speculation about CBS Studios and Paramount TV Studios combining has actually been around since the 2019 CBS-Viacom merger was announced. Launched by Paramount Pictures’ Brad Grey in 2013, Paramount TV Studios has been the smaller of the two and its volume was impacted when Paramount+ pared down its scripted originals ramp-up plans to stem streaming losses. The studio continued to sell to outside platforms.

In her note to staff, Clemens, who joined PTVS in 2018, reflected on the label’s legacy.

“Over the past 11 years, PTVS has weathered seemingly insurmountable obstacles through a combination of strength, determination, and unwavering commitment,” she said. “We met these challenges with incredible resilience, creativity, and passion for what we do, and I could not be prouder of our team. We’ve also had the privilege to collaborate with some of the most brilliant creative talent in the industry to help tell incredible stories seen around the world, entertaining and shaping culture.”

Here are the two memos:

Note from Nicole Clemens: President, Paramount Television Studios

Dear PTVS Family,

As you’re all aware, Paramount Global has made the difficult decision to close Paramount Television Studios as part of the company’s broader restructuring plans. This has been a challenging and transformative time for the entire industry, and sadly, our studio is not immune.

Over the past 11 years, PTVS has weathered seemingly insurmountable obstacles through a combination of strength, determination, and unwavering commitment. We met these challenges with incredible resilience, creativity, and passion for what we do, and I could not be prouder of our team. We’ve also had the privilege to collaborate with some of the most brilliant creative talent in the industry to help tell incredible stories seen around the world, entertaining and shaping culture.

Although Paramount Television Studios is ending, our ethos will live on in shows that will continue to be enjoyed by global audiences for years to come. We’ve cemented our legacy by shepherding some of the most influential, award-winning, and critically acclaimed shows in the streaming era with series like “13 Reasons Why,” “The Offer,” “Defending Jacob,” “The Alienist,” “The Haunting of Hill House,” “Station Eleven,” “Time Bandits,” and many more. We have broken streaming platform records with “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan,” “Reacher,” and “The Spiderwick Chronicles.” Our upcoming shows, “Cross,” “Before,” and “Murderbot,” are sure to join the ranks of those hits.

This has been the most formative chapter in my career, and that is mainly due to the remarkable colleagues I have had the honor to lead and learn from on a daily basis. Thank you for supporting me, inspiring me, and laughing with me for the last six years — I wouldn’t have wanted to be in the trenches with anyone else.

I want to thank George Cheeks for his leadership and support through it all. There will undoubtedly be some tears as we move on, but this business is a marathon, and I am certain that we will cross paths, if not work together, again.

“Often when you think you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something else.” – Fred Rogers

With heartfelt gratitude,

Nicole

Note from George Cheeks: Co-CEO, Paramount Global and President & CEO, CBS

CBS Team,

As you saw from the email Brian, Chris and I sent earlier, this is a very difficult day at Paramount Global. I’m reaching out to share that today’s news unfortunately impacts CBS, including one of our studios.

A short time ago, we informed the team at Paramount Television Studios (PTVS) that the studio will cease operations at the end of the week. To be clear, this is not a decision based on how PTVS performed. This move is the result of significant changes in the TV and streaming marketplace and the need to streamline our company.

I want to thank PTVS President Nicole Clemens and the talented team she built for the many signature hits they produced. Under Nicole’s leadership, this studio consistently punched above its weight in attracting top storytellers and stars to create best-in-class series. I want to thank every PTVS employee for shepherding a slate of shows that helped usher Paramount into the streaming era.

Going forward, all current PTVS series and development projects will transition to CBS Studios.

In addition to PTVS, there are members of CBS teams who will be leaving the company. These are valued colleagues we admire and respect, whose talents contributed to the leadership position we enjoy today. I want to express my deepest gratitude for their contributions, hard work and dedication.

As we move forward, please keep these co-workers in your thoughts as our HR teams and their teammates help support them through this process.

There is a lot of news to unpack today. I know it’s unsettling. I continue to be impressed and grateful for our teams’ ability to stay focused and stick together during this transitional time.

George

Stream a Mountain of Entertainment, including your Nickelodeon favorites on Paramount+! Try it FREE at ParamountPlus.com!

More Nick: Paramount Plus Expands Kids and Family Programming with New Slate of Films and Series from Nickelodeon Studios!

Originally published: August 13, 2024.

Original source: Deadline.

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Nickelodeon Marketing Executive Sabrina Caluori Exiting Ahead Of Broader Paramount Layoffs

Sabrina Caluori, a veteran TV executive who was Nickelodeon‘s top marketing exec, is exiting her post ahead of broader layoffs at Paramount Global.

Sabrina Caluori / Nickelodeon

In a memo to colleagues (available to read in full below), Caluori said her “three slime-filled years” at the company are ending today. Her departure comes a few days after that of another key marketing exec, Michael Engleman, who was Chief Marketing Officer at Paramount+ Domestic and Paramount+ with Showtime.

Paramount last Thursday (Aug. 8) confirmed deep staffing cutbacks are coming soon, with 15% of the U.S. workforce to exit before the end of the year. The new round of layoffs are set to begin Tuesday. Paramount management has said it is aiming to generate $500 million in annual savings.

Caluori joined Nickelodeon in August 2021 as Senior Vice President (SVP) Brand and Content Strategy, overseeing global brand strategy, original programming launches, media planning, digital and social media, and marketing analytics, and was promoted to the position of Executive Vice President (EVP) and Head of Marketing and Brand Strategy for Nickelodeon in 2022, which saw her add overseeing brand and creative marketing, supporting content for Nick’s linear networks and the Nick content developed for Paramount+ to her remit.

In a note to staff, she says Nick “was the very first brand that I loved” and praised her team for their recent work. “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together, but what I’m most proud of is the culture we created,” Caluori wrote. “Jumping into the unexpected, striving to make the mundane magical, and doing it all LIKE A SPONGE. Each day you launched groundbreaking work while navigating industry currents with the optimism of SpongeBob and the determination of Patrick.”

Caluori joined Nickelodeon from HBO, where she had a 12-year run, rising to EVP Marketing & Digital Media, where she built and led the digital and social marketing function across all brands and programming.

Before joining HBO, Caluori headed the account team at the interactive agency Deep Focus, where she oversaw digital media, creative and publicity for clients such as HBO, Miramax, Google, Court TV and Comedy Central.

The staff reductions are coming ahead of Skydance Media’s proposed merger with Paramount, which is slated to close in the first half of 2025.

Here is Caluori’s full memo to staff:

Team, 

I write to you to share that after three slime-filled years, today will be my last day at Paramount.

Writing notes like this one is never easy. Nickelodeon was the very first brand that I loved. Getting to work alongside all of you to share that love with today’s kids (including my own) has been a dream come true. 

Thank you for daring the world to follow their “kidstincts.” Together, we brought the brand’s iconic Splat back with our Emmy award-winning brand campaign, slimed the Super Bowl(!), made Good Burger 2 the biggest direct-to-streaming movie of the year, relaunched Dora to the world, crushed expectations at the Kids’ Choice Awards, engaged millions of kids on Roblox and celebrated 25 years of SpongeBob with an epic, global campaign that set the bar for creator marketing. (And so much more!)

I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together, but what I’m most proud of is the culture we created. Jumping into the unexpected, striving to make the mundane magical, and doing it all LIKE A SPONGE. Each day you launched groundbreaking work while navigating industry currents with the optimism of SpongeBob and the determination of Patrick. You are the heartbeat of this brand and your passion for the Nickelodeon mission is evident in everything you do.

My support for you remains steadfast as we transition to this new chapter. I continue to be your biggest cheerleader, coach and mentor. Please do not hesitate to reach out. 

Rooting for you always, 

Sabrina

Stream a Mountain of Entertainment, including your Nickelodeon favorites on Paramount+! Try it FREE at ParamountPlus.com!

More Nick: Paramount Plus Expands Kids and Family Programming with New Slate of Films and Series from Nickelodeon Studios!

Originally published: August 13, 2024.

Sources: Deadline, The Hollywood Reporter, Variety.

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Classic Rugrats Comic Strip for August 13, 2024 | Nickelodeon

Classic Rugrats Comic Strip for August 13, 2024 | Nickelodeon

Stream the classic Rugrats series on Paramount+! Try it FREE at ParamountPlus.com!

Rugrats, provided to Creators Syndicate by Nickelodeon, based off the popular animated television series has been created for children and family's to laugh and enjoy together.

Follow these comics and their take on real episodes of the show and their own spin on hilarious adventures.

Read more Rugrats comic strips!: https://www.creators.com/features/rugrats

More Nick: Paramount+ Renews 'Rugrats' For Season 3!

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SpongeBob SquarePants x Sandy Cheeks - Sandys Rodeo Show (Official Music Video) | SpongeBob Music

Spongebob Schwammkopf x Sandy Cheeks - Sandys Rodeo Show (offizielles Musikvideo) | Spongebob Musik

Wer sich nicht festhält, fällt  ins Klo

Yeehaw!  Nicht nur, dass SpongeBob 2024 seinen 25. Geburtstag feiert, seine beste Freundin, das Eichhörnchen Sandy Cheeks bekommt mit „Rettet Bikini Bottom: Der Sandy Cheeks Film“ („Saving Bikini Bottom“) einen eigenen Film in Spielfilmlänge!  Rechtzeitig dazu erscheint eine erste Duett-Single der beiden Zeichentrick-Stars . 

„Sandys Rodeo Show“ ist ein wahrer Ritt: Es geht um Sandys Lieblingssport, das Rodeo-Reiten – und natürlich ist es ein waschechter Country- Song, nach der Melodie des Traditionals  „Cotton Eye Joe“, der die Band Rednex in den 90ern bekannt machte.

Hier die gesamten Sandy Songs streamen: https://EUROPA.lnk.to/sandy-rodeoAY

Streamen Sie mit Paramount+ einen Berg an Unterhaltung! Probieren Sie es KOSTENLOS auf ParamountPlus.com aus!

Mehr Nick: Feier Wie Ein Schwamm: Nickelodeon Feiert 25 Jahre 'SpongeBob Schwammkopf'!

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'PAW Patrol: Adventure Play' Helps Save The Day at The Center of Science and Industry

PAW Patrol: Adventure Play Helps Save The Day at The Center of Science and Industry

COLUMBUS, Ohio — Kids and families can now play and save the day with the heroic PAW Patrol pups, at the brand-new PAW Patrol: Adventure Play exhibit, open to the public Sept. 21, 2024, through Jan. 12, 2025, at the Center of Science and Industry (COSI). Based on the hit preschool series PAW Patrol, which is produced by Spin Master Entertainment and airs on Nickelodeon, this interactive exhibit gives kids and their grownups an opportunity to run rescue missions and work together to overcome challenges in a fun and immersive environment.

Guests can explore the area at no extra charge, as it is included with general admission to the museum.

Guests enjoy the hands-on immersive exhibit with Marshall the fiire dog dalmatian.

Families will visit Adventure Bay with a group of eight rescue pups. Each pup is inspired by a real-world job like fire fighter (firedog Marshall), police officer (police pup Chase), construction worker (Rubble), fearless pilot (Skye) and more. Just as the heroic pups, who believe "no job is too big, no pup is too small," work together to protect the community on the TV show, families work together to save the day with a can-do attitude at the museum. In the process, kids learn about different jobs within a community and how those real-life professionals coordinate to keep people safe and happy.

"The big takeaway for children and their grownups is that every team member's skills are valued and serve an important purpose to help the whole team accomplish important goals," said Dr. Jeffrey H. Patchen, president and CEO of the museum that produced the exhibit, The Children's Museum of Indianapolis. "We want little ones to learn about citizenship, helpfulness and solving problems with the assistance of these rescue pups, who team up to help their neighbors who are in trouble."

There is no job too big and no pup too small in "Paw Patrol Adventure Play."

Each of the pups has special skills, gadgets and vehicles to help them on their rescue missions. In the exhibit, families are invited to pop on a pup pack containing their own imaginary tools and check out the lay of the land from the lookout tower. They can head to Jake's Mountain and scope things out near the snowy slide to see if anyone is in trouble. They can also board the PAW Patroller, push buttons, and drive it up the mountain to help Rubble and Everest rescue a snowboarder stuck in the snow. Those with a taste for foodie adventures can whip up tasty treats in Porter's Café and help Adventure Bay win the Tallest Cake Competition by stacking cake layers as high as they can. Families can also cruise Adventure Bay aboard the Sea Patroller, steering it to rescue baby seagulls and turtles.

Activities include:

• Stack a Cake with Marshall: Visit Porter's Cafe and lend a paw to help Adventure Bay win the Tallest and Tastiest Cake competition.
• Rescue a Dolphin with Skye: Hopscotch across the backs of sea turtles and solve a maze to reunite a lost baby dolphin with his mother.
• Recycle with Rocky: A storm blew litter all over town! Help Rocky clean up the street by sorting metal, paper and glass into the appropriate recycling bins.
• Climb a Mountain with Everest: Scale a snowy peak and use a telescope to search for friends in need of a rescue.
• Perform a Snowboarder Rescue with Rubble: Jake the snowboarder is trapped in a cave. Scoop away the snow to save the day!
• Free a Trapped Baby Seagull with Zuma: A baby seagull is tangled in a net! Set her free and return her to the safety of her nest.

The hands-on, immersive PAW Patrol: Adventure Play exhibit is a fun way for the whole family to learn bravery and heroism, with exciting stories. The whole family will learn how to combine their skills to problem-solve together and save the day.

Explore this immersive exhibit with Skye.

PAW Patrol: Adventure Play was produced by The Children's Museum of Indianapolis in partnership with Nickelodeon. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is a nonprofit committed to creating extraordinary family learning experiences across the arts, sciences, and humanities that have the power to transform the lives of children and families.

For more information about PAW Patrol: Adventure Play at the Center of Science and Industry (COSI), visit https://cosi.org/exhibits/paw-patrol.

©Spin Master Ltd. ™PAW PATROL and all related titles, logos, characters; and SPIN MASTER logo are trademarks of Spin Master Ltd. Used under license. Nickelodeon and all related titles and logos are trademarks of Viacom International Inc.

PAW Patrol fans can stream full PAW Patrol episodes and movies, including The Mighty Movie, on Paramount+. Try it FREE today at ParamountPlus.com.

Buy Rubble & Crew toys: https://amzn.to/43sHvK4

Buy PAW Patrol merchandise: https://amzn.to/43jKVPc

Subscribe to the official Rubble & Crew YouTube channel!: https://www.youtube.com/@RubbleOfficial

More Nick: Spin Master Entertainment, Nickelodeon Movies and Paramount Pictures Announce Third 'PAW Patrol' Feature Film In the Works!

Originally published: August 13, 2024.

H/T: NBC4.

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'Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto' Set to Deliver the Ultimate Ninja Crossover

How many ninja can one comic hold?

(Image Credit: IDW Publishing/Viz Media)

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles comic book line is having a banner year in 2024. Not only is IDW kicking off a star-studded relaunch of the monthly TMNT series and continuing the Last Ronin saga, now they're gearing up for a crossover with one of the biggest anime and manga properties on the planet. That's right, the heroes in a half shell of TMNT and Naruto are joining forces.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto is a joint effort between IDW Publishing and Viz Media. This four-issue series is written by Caleb Goellner (Sonic the Hedgehog) and illustrated by Hendry Prasetya (Mighty Morphin Power Rangers), with colors by Raúl Angulo (NYX) and letters by Ed Dukeshire (The Woods). Jorge Jiménez (Batman) and Prasetya provided cover art for issue #1, which you can check out below, courtesy of IGN!

Here's IDW's official description for issue #1:

It’s the coolest ninja matchup you could have ever dreamed of, had you dared! The Heroes in a Half-Shell meet the host of the Nine-Tailed Fox in the crossover everyone will be talking about.

When teenage reporter April O’Neil has a clandestine meeting with Tsunade, the leader of the Hidden Leaf Village, it garners the attention of Naruto, Sasuke, Sakura, and Kakashi. They aren’t the only ones who are wondering what the two women were discussing, though. The sinister Foot Clan have their own interest in April’s visit, as they think she might hold the valuable information on mutation research being conducted by the scientist Baxter Stockman. With April caught between the forces of the Hidden Leaf Village and the Foot Clan, it can’t be long before the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles show up to lend her a hand!

Working with acclaimed manga publisher Viz Entertainment, IDW is pulling together two of the most popular comics in the world to bring you the four-issue comic book event of 2024!

“I’m stoked and humbled to get to work with the coolest talent in comics and manga to introduce the ninja created by my heroes in a massive mutagen and chakra-fueled adventure for fans everywhere," Goellner told IGN. "What else can you call it but an honor? Let’s party."

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto #1 will be released on November 13, 2024.

Check out the gallery below for a look at cover art and concept designs for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles x Naruto:

Art by Hendry Prasetya. (Image Credit: IDW Publishing/Viz Media)

Art by Jorge Jimenez. (Image Credit: IDW Publishing/Viz Media)

Art by Hendry Prasetya. (Image Credit: IDW Publishing/Viz Media)

Art by Hendry Prasetya. (Image Credit: IDW Publishing/Viz Media)

Art by Hendry Prasetya. (Image Credit: IDW Publishing/Viz Media)

Art by Hendry Prasetya. (Image Credit: IDW Publishing/Viz Media)

Stream the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Universe, including Mutant Mayhem on Paramount+! Try it FREE at ParamountPlus.com!

Stream Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Movie on Netflix!

Subscribe to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles OFFICIAL YouTube channel - the ultimate home for all things TMNT! Here you’ll find Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael, and Donatello’s best moments from all your favorite TMNT series. Join the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles in their fight against evil, and be the first to get notified of exclusive original content you won’t find anywhere else! https://at.nick.com/TMNTSubscribe

More Nick: ‘Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem’ Movie Sequel and Paramount+ Series in the Works!

Originally published: August 13, 2024.

H/T: ComicBook.com, Kidscreen.

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Fabacus Partners with Paramount to Deepen Global Licensing Success

Fabacus partners with Paramount to deepen Global licensing success

Technology company, Fabacus, has announced a new global partnership with entertainment powerhouse, Paramount. This strategic collaboration will enhance Paramount’s licensing program by leveraging Fabacus’ cutting-edge technology, to create a comprehensive, digital product catalogue of all licensed products.

The digital catalogue data aims to drive sales growth across Paramount’s extensive range of IPs through enhancing brand protection, improving online discoverability, and identifying new retail opportunities for licensee partners through enhanced retail insights and analytics. In addition, the data will act as a foundation for environmental compliance for emerging European Union (EU) product related sustainability regulations.

The rollout of the partnership will begin across European, Middle Eastern and African (EMEA) markets, with plans to expand the digital innovation globally, streamlining licensing operations across Paramount’s worldwide portfolio.

Jose Castro, Paramount EMEA Executive Vice President (EVP) Licensing Consumer Products & Experiences, said, “Partnering with Fabacus is a significant step forward in the continued success and advancement of our global licensing program. Through their technology, we can ensure the authenticity of our licensed products, making it easier for consumers to find and purchase authentic Paramount merchandise, as well as provide our licensees with the tools they need to succeed. We are excited to see this collaboration come to life, bringing a myriad of benefits to our brands and our partners worldwide.”

Andrew Xeni, Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Fabacus, also commented on the partnership announcement, “It’s brilliant to be joining forces with Paramount and implementing our technology and service. As licensing enters a new era of data requirements and regulation, we look forward to helping Paramount and all client partners achieve their goals, digitising their global licensing operations as well as protecting brand IP and consumers.”

About Fabacus

Fabacus is a pioneering data technology company working across the brand licensing, manufacturing, and retail industries. The company creates unique product identification credentials that authenticate IP ownership to form proprietary digital product catalogues at scale for retailers and brand owners. Fabacus DaaS (Data-As-A-Service) Xelacore platform facilitates an infinite number of attributes, ensuring strengthened transparency, collaboration, and trust. The company delivers comprehensive and verifiable records across the value chain by streamlining and validating product information for advanced reporting, brand protection and mitigation against counterfeit goods. Fabacus also enables brands, retailers, and event operators to engage and monetise via dynamic customer engagement channels and live events. 

The Xelacore data engine powers the market leading Fabacus’ Digital Product Passport product, a full spectrum customisable and trusted solution that has been architected to capture and collate product journey information and authenticate data claims, as well as disclosing circular economy claims, decarbonisation, and climate credentials against EU regulations and GS1 environmental standards.   

Fabacus was founded by successful retail and technology entrepreneur Andrew Xeni and is backed by several leading financial institutions including iNovia Partners, led by former Google CFO Patrick Pichette, as well as New Look founder Tom Singh. Fabacus’ community of blue-chip clients include Paramount, NBCUniversal, Hasbro, Fanatics, Epic Games, Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), Activision Blizzard and IMG, part of Endeavor.  For more information and to connect with the team, visit www.linkedin.com/company/fabacusuk or www.fabacus.com  

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Stream a Mountain of Entertainment, including your Nickelodeon favorites on Paramount+! Try it FREE at ParamountPlus.com!

More Nick: Paramount Plus Expands Kids and Family Programming with New Slate of Films and Series from Nickelodeon Studios!

Originally published: August 13, 2024.

H/T: Licensing.biz.

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Story House Egmont and Mattel Launch 'Monster High' Magazine

Story House Egmont and Mattel have announced a multi-market launch of a new Monster High magazine.

Story House Egmont and Mattel have announced a partnership that has seen a Monster High magazine launch across the UK, GSA, Nordic and CEE markets. Based on the hugely successful Monster High franchise, the magazine launched in the UK market on 3rd July 2024, followed by launches in other markets later in the month.

Bastian Mai, Global Licensing director at Story House Egmont, said: “We have a longstanding publishing partnership with Mattel and its evergreen brands. We are delighted to be adding a multi-territory launch of Monster High to this partnership. Story House Egmont is a market leader in all markets where it operates, and this gives us a strong position to launch this amazing IP into the market.”

Siobhan Galvin, commercial director at Story House Egmont UK, who leads on the market activation, said: “We are thrilled to be launching Monster High magazine this summer. We have secured great listings at retail, and we expect young fans to be delighted with how the magazine enriches the Monster High world. The buoyant UK children’s magazine market is the perfect place for the Monster High brand to reach existing and new fans.”

Claudia Lucarella, head of Publishing at Mattel EMEA, said: “Mattel is thrilled at the continued success of the Monster High IP, and we are delighted to be working with Story House Egmont once more. It is a real leader in its field and the perfect partner to entrust the sacred Monster High brand to.”

Ever since Monster High’s original launch in 2010, the franchise has been rooted in storytelling. Based on the children of famous monsters, the franchise seeks to foster a more accepting world where everyone is proud to be their authentic self. Today, Monster High is back with a reimagined set of characters reflected in new dolls, new animated content and movies, new books, accessories, apparel, costumes and more.

The Monster High magazine will be the perfect addition to this licensing programme, with every issue focusing on the editorial pillars of friendship, individuality, fashion and storytelling.

All-new stories will be created using assets from the new TV series, and activities will be linked to areas of the Monster High school with a narrative purpose to extend the storytelling. There will be a dedicated fashion section with doodle and stick activities to design new looks for readers and their dolls. Plus, tips to customise old clothes with readers’ signature style. The aim to let readers’ express themselves and explore who they are underpins each issue.

Every issue will come with an exclusive Monster High gift that is linked to the magazine content, but also designed to be enjoyed by fans off-the-page and added to their Monster High collection. Issues will also feature Monster High posters, crafts, and activities. New issues will be released monthly.

Monster High #1 comes with a gore-geous accessory set, a design & doodle notebook, creeperific Draculara facts, a fangtastic story, 120 stickers, and the chance to create Clawsome clutch bags.

Both Story House Egmont and Mattel will be attending Brand Licensing Europe from the 24th-26th September 2024. Please reach out directly for meeting requests.

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More Nick: Nickelodeon USA and Milkshake! UK Partner For New Preschool Series 'Tim Rex in Space'!

Originally published: August 13, 2024.

Original source: Licensing.biz.

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Hasbro Launches 'Peppa Pig’s Play-A-Long Podcast'

In an exclusive deal with Audible, Peppa Pig’s Play-A-Long Podcast has six episodes that will inspire pre-schoolers’ confidence and foster their development.

Hasbro has launched Peppa Pig’s Play-A-Long Podcast, the first release as part of an exclusive podcasting deal with Audible, which is now streaming on the platform. Pre-schoolers and families can join Peppa Pig’s world with a mix of fun interactive games, outdoor adventures and catchy sing-alongs with Peppa’s new band, The Piggy-Wigs. Each of the six episodes spans 15 minutes, providing another medium for Peppa to inspire pre-schoolers’ confidence and foster their development.

Themes in the podcast, including ‘Are We There Yet?’, an episode supporting pre-schoolers on long journeys, and an episode about anger titled, ‘Very Big Feelings’, are designed specifically to help families with pre-schoolers recognise and navigate their big emotions. As the beloved animated show celebrates its 20^th anniversary this year, Hasbro and Audible will bring Peppa and her diverse playgroup to a whole new world of audio-first entertainment with rich storytelling for all family listening occasions, reaffirming Peppa’s commitment to providing quality entertainment for families.

Peppa Pig’s Play-A-Long Podcast Episode List:

Episode 1: Very Big Feelings

Peppa has accidentally knocked over George’s block tower. Peppa and Daddy Pig play lots of fun games to help George calm down and teach listeners all about what they can do when they feel really big feelings.

Episode 2: Are We There Yet?

Peppa uses fun songs and sound-based games to pass the time on a really long drive, as listeners try to figure out where they’re going.

Episode 3: 1…2….3….Ding

Peppa Pig is about to perform with her newly-formed band called The Piggy-Wigs, but Suzy Sheep is feeling nervous. Listeners will play-a-long with the music-based games and help Peppa show Suzy there’s nothing to be afraid of.

Episode 4: Tiny Crawly Creatures

Peppa Pig’s family picnic has been interrupted by ants. Peppa and George wonder what life is like inside an ant hill.

Episode 5: Very Big Grown-ups

Listeners will visit Peppa’s friends at Playgroup and take a trip to Granny and Grandpa Pig’s house, as Peppa tries to figure out what the grown-ups in her life do when she’s not around, what kind of job she might like when she’s a grown-up, and even what she may be like as a Granny herself.

Episode 6: Not Tired

Peppa and George are having a sleepover at Granny and Grandpa Pig’s house. Listeners will settle in for a cozy wind down to a good night’s rest, as Peppa, George, Granny and Grandpa Pig help listeners brush their teeth with a song, lead them on a play-a-long story game and teach them about how to make sure they get a full night’s sleep.

Peppa Pig’s Play-A-Long Podcast is exclusively on Audible now at www.audible.co.uk. Audible membership may be required.

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More Nick: 'Peppa Pig' Introduces Show's First Same-Sex Parent Family!

Original source: Licensing.biz.

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Peppa Pig Releases 'Piggle Wiggle' Single and Music Video

The latest Peppa Pig single and music video Piggle Wiggle is available to stream across all platforms.

In the pre-school icon’s newest track Piggle Wiggle, Peppa brings her signature charm and infectious energy to the dance floor. Piggle Wiggle is set to a lively beat and captures the fun of dancing together with friends, with a catchy chorus and playful yet encouraging lyrics.

The track was written and produced by Grammy winning producer, DJ White Shadow along with Jay Diggs, Anthony Watts and Kaeyra, adding Peppa to the list of A-list stars the team has worked with.

The new single is available to stream now on all digital streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple Music and Amazon Music.

The song has arrived during the brand’s 20^th anniversary year and will be a part of the upcoming album release, Peppa’s Party: The Album. Coming this summer, the full album is a celebration for the whole family.

Peppa’s Party: The Album marks the fifth studio release from the beloved global pre-school brand and includes eight dynamic tracks, including a standout cover of Katy Perry’s Roar, the crowd-pleasing Piggle Wiggle and revamped classics like I am Peppa Pig. The album is designed to be more than just entertainment; it’s a tool for building confidence in young minds. As a lifelong friend, Peppa encourages kids to jump in together and explore the world around them, while giving them the confidence to treat every first step as a new adventure, from the everyday to the epic. Through the power of fun, dance and movement, Peppa’s Party fosters an environment where children can explore their creativity, express themselves and develop a positive sense of self. With catchy tunes and engaging narratives, Peppa’s Party: The Album explores how bravery and patience can lead to exciting experiences with Rollercoaster, and introduces fun new tracks including a wedding party song I Do.

Hasbro’s mission is to entertain and connect generations of fans through the wonder of storytelling and exhilaration of play. By supplementing great storytelling with impactful music, little ones can better connect to and understand their favourite entertainment.

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More Nick: 'Peppa Pig' Introduces Show's First Same-Sex Parent Family!

Original source: Licensing.biz.

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Lego Duplo Peppa Pig Mobile App Available Now

StoryToys, The Lego Group and Hasbro have partnered to create the Lego Duplo Peppa Pig app for Peppa’s 20^th anniversary.

StoryToys has announced the arrival of the new Lego Duplo Peppa Pig app, with Peppa Pig and her friends and family making their way to the colourful world of Lego Duplo. Now available on the App Store and Google Play, the app is bursting with fun gameplay, building and creativity, just in time for Peppa’s 20^th Anniversary.

While little ones are busy splashing in virtual muddy puddles and giggling with Peppa, they’ll also be learning lots of new things. With the Lego Duplo Learning Through Play approach, kids will play and learn through an adventure that encourages imagination and exploration with the adorable characters of Peppa Pig.

Blending the worlds of Lego Duplo and Peppa Pig, this app offers a new digital experience. Little builders can interact with their favourite characters and locations in exciting new ways, creating endless fun and laughter. Each pack in the app is set in a different location from the familiar world of Peppa Pig. Play packs at launch include Garden Treehouse, Boat Trip and Peppa’s Birthday Party, all packed full of fun and learning.

In the Peppa’s Birthday Party pack, little builders join Peppa, George and her friends Suzy Sheep and Pedro Pony for an exciting birthday celebration at Peppa’s house. In the Garden Treehouse, Peppa and George have a fun-filled adventure exploring and playing outside in the garden. Fans can set sail with Peppa and Grandpa Pig on a maritime adventure visiting many islands in the Boat Trip pack.

New content will be regularly added to the app for ongoing fun and play.

“To take such an iconic character as Peppa Pig and combine her with the world’s most iconic bricks has been an absolute privilege for StoryToys,” said Emmet O’Neill, CEO of StoryToys. “We have worked together with Hasbro and The Lego Group to create a magical experience for kids, breathing life into the characters in new and fun ways to inspire children all over the world to play.”

Michaela Edgerley Šťovíček, head of Product, Lego Pre-School, The Lego Group, added: “We’re extremely happy about the partnership with StoryToys and Hasbro, as bringing the physical building experience of Lego Duplo Peppa Pig into the digital world creates an additional layer to the play experiences for toddlers all around the world. We’ve thoroughly designed this experience to allow learning and playing to go hand in hand as toddlers create, imagine, explore and have fun.”

“Storytelling has been such an integral part of Peppa Pig for 20 years, teaching the values of confidence, friendship and individuality to pre-schoolers along the way,” said Esra Cafer, senior vice president, Global Brand Strategy & Management, Pre-School & Fashion at Hasbro. “We’re extending Peppa’s positive brand ethos into unique and highly engaging brand experiences thanks to innovative and creative partners like StoryToys and The Lego Group. With the Lego Duplo Peppa Pig app, kids and families everywhere can engage with the beloved brand in a new, creative way.”

The Lego Duplo Peppa Pig app comes as part of a larger agreement revealed in January between Hasbro and The Lego Group. The exciting collaboration sees Peppa Pig come to life in Lego Duplo form for the very first time in Lego products, as well as engaging YouTube content, publishing and incredible attractions and rides in select Merlin Entertainments theme parks. Lego Duplo Peppa Pig play areas are currently open at Legoland Billund and the brand-new Peppa Pig Park in Gunzburg in Germany, situated next to Legoland Deutschland Park.

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More Nick: 'Peppa Pig' Introduces Show's First Same-Sex Parent Family!

Original source: Licensing.biz.

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