The world’s most famous lasagna-loving cat has a new home.
Viacom Inc., through Nickelodeon, will acquire Paws Inc., the entity holding global intellectual property rights to Jim Davis’ Garfield and U.S. Acres franchises — including all corresponding IP rights related to content, consumer products, and location-based experiences. The companies expect the acquisition to close in the upcoming weeks.
The Garfield franchise, which celebrated its 40th anniversary last year, will join other Nickelodeon franchises, including Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, SpongeBob SquarePants — and its upcoming spin-off, Kamp Koral — Paw Patrol, the forthcoming Blue’s Clues and You!, and the new Star Trek animated series
“This acquisition marks another step in our evolution toward being kids’ first stop for the best new content and characters, so we’re incredibly happy to have Garfield join our growing roster of globally loved franchises and to introduce this cool cat to a new generation of fans,” says Nickelodeon President Brian Robbins.
Once the acquisition is complete, Garfield creator Jim Davis will continue to produce his syndicated Garfield comic strip, Nickelodeon will develop a new Garfield animated series, and Viacom Nickelodeon Consumer Products (VNCP) will manage a global merchandising program, including the property’s existing portfolio of licensees.
“I’ve always tried to make people laugh with humor that is classic and appealing to both kids and adults,” comments Davis. I’m delighted that Garfield is going to be placed in the capable hands of the folks at Nick. They know how to entertain and will be great stewards for the franchise. I am also excited to continue to do the thing that gets me out of bed every morning… the comic strip!”
