Genius Brands seals its largest content licensing deal with Netflix

Joseph O'Halloran; 17 June 2016

Marking what it describes as a milestone in growth, Genius Brands International has cut a deal with subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) leader Netflix to premiere its new original preschool series, Llama Llama.

Llama Llama 17 June 2016Currently in production on 15 half-hour episodes, the animated series is based on the award-winning and bestselling book series by author and illustrator Anna Dewdney. With nearly ten million units in print, Dewdney's Llama Llama books have all been New York Times bestsellers, with several titles reaching the number one spot.

The new series is being produced in 20 different languages, which will be distributed day and date worldwide. GBI is also rolling out a global licensing programme. The works is being driven by a number of leading creators, including Oscar-winning director Rob Minkoff, director Saul Blinkoff, Emmy-winning writer Joe Purdy, Disney art director Ruben Aquino and Emmy-award winning producers Jane Startz and Andy Heyward.

“Only with a property of this calibre, and with a broadcaster of Netflix’s stature have we been in a position to attract such an accomplished and talented team of champions,” remarked GBI chairman and CEO Andy Heyward. “This deal signifies our largest content deal and the global exposure of the brand through our partnership with Netflix will trigger a multitude of income streams in various content windows, as well as in consumer products, immediately becoming accretive to the company.”