WildBrain CPLG is welcoming new additions to its entertainment portfolio that it plans to extend into toys, games, and beyond.
Ahead of next week’s Licensing Expo in Las Vegas, the agency has signed worldwide licensing and merchandising (L&M) rights for various HarperCollins Productions’ properties, including Carmen Sandiego, The Oregon Trail, and Pretzel and the Puppies.
“As our North America office continues to expand its entertainment portfolio, it’s fantastic to welcome a company of HarperCollins Productions’ caliber into our roster, a group which is home to some incredible popular franchises that we know have significant consumer products potential,” says Jasen Wright, vice president, North America, WildBrain CPLG. “What’s more, the Carmen Sandiego brand is a perfect example of how WildBrain is positioned to offer 360-degree strategies for IP owners who are looking for integrated content, distribution, and licensing all under one roof.”
Within WildBrain’s rights for Carmen Sandiego is the popular animated action-adventure television series based on the media franchise. The agency also holds the rights to the Carmen Sandiego Netflix movie currently under development.
Additionally, The Oregon Trail video game franchise recently launched as a top-ranked game on Apple Arcade. WildBrain is extending the popular property into books and licensing with major media, but the expansion is in development.
Pretzel and the Puppies, a children’s book by Margret and H.A. Rey, is also now an animated series on Apple TV+. In the series, Pretzel, the world’s longest dachshund, and his wife encourage their pups to solve problems and “make their bark” on the world.
“HarperCollins publishes some of the best children’s titles in the world,” says Caroline Fraser, head of HarperCollins Productions. “When we adapt these titles to screen, kids, families, and authors enjoy wider access to our beloved characters and stories.”
Under the deal, WildBrain will continue to build on the strategic licensing programs for each of the properties including new promotions, location-based entertainment rights, apparel, toys, games, homewares, fashion accessories, and more.
