Japanese artist Kazuki Takahashi, who spawned a global franchise with the comic Yu-Gi-Oh, has died in what appears to be a swimming accident. Takahashi, whose real first name was Kazuo, was discovered floating in the sea near the town of Nago on Wednesday. The location is in the southern island prefecture of Okinawa, a popular island getaway for Japanese tourists. The area … [Read more...] about Yu-Gi-Oh Creator Kazuki Takahashi Dies in Swimming Accident
Comic Books/Strips
Peanuts Appoints Wildbrain For CP Licensing in Asia-Pacific
WildBrain CPLG is celebrating their appointment as the agency for Peanuts Worldwide in Asia, as the brand hits $2.5 billion in CP sales. “As an owner of the brand and the producer of all-new Peanuts content under our long-term arrangement with Apple TV+, and now as the consumer products agency for Peanuts in more than 50 countries worldwide, our global organization is uniquely … [Read more...] about Peanuts Appoints Wildbrain For CP Licensing in Asia-Pacific
Manga Licensing: Ukonic Secures Deal For Naruto Product Line
The anime and manga publisher VIZ Media has teamed up with Ukonic to bring "Naruto Shippuden" products into the homes of fans. The partnership, which extends through 2025, covers everything to personalize your home or office, from area rugs and furniture to small kitchen appliances. "Creating exceptional items that fans love is our passion," says Martin Butler, CEO and … [Read more...] about Manga Licensing: Ukonic Secures Deal For Naruto Product Line
British Comic Beano Celebrates 85 Years With New Campaign
The world's longest running weekly comic, Beano, will celebrate its 85th anniversary next year with a national licensing campaign by Rocket. Beano first hit print in 1938, before the Second World War, and became one of the most popular British brands of all time. Country Life even put it on the list of top British brands with The Beatles and James Bond. “Beano is part of the … [Read more...] about British Comic Beano Celebrates 85 Years With New Campaign
Popeye Sails Into New Territories
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter King Features Syndicate has announced expansion into new territories for its iconic comic characters, Popeye and Olive Oyl. Building upon its already successful global licensing program, King Features has signed several new agents to support growth in the new territories which include J&M Brands in Benelux, Wildbrain CPLG in the Middle … [Read more...] about Popeye Sails Into New Territories
Genius Brands Signs Long-Term Deal with Marvel Studios to License the Likeness of Stan Lee
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter Stan Lee Universe has signed a 20-year deal to license the name and likeness of Stan Lee to Marvel Studios and Disney for global use in media and experiences. Stan Lee Universe is a joint venture between Pow! Entertainment and Genius Brands International that is focused on maintaining and expanding Stan Lee's legacy through licensing deals … [Read more...] about Genius Brands Signs Long-Term Deal with Marvel Studios to License the Likeness of Stan Lee
Comics Licensing: Surge Licensing To Develop Licensing Strategy For Webtoon
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter The digital comics platform WEBTOON has appointed Surge Licensing as the exclusive North American licensing agent for the platform. Founded in 1986, Surge Licensing is known for creating multi-platformed entertainment and consumer product licensing programs. As an IP incubator, the agency's main goal is growing and managing brands for its … [Read more...] about Comics Licensing: Surge Licensing To Develop Licensing Strategy For Webtoon
Licensing Law Shocker: Hawley Targets Disney With Bill To Limit Copyright Protection
If Passed, Law Would Impact All Licensors, Limiting Copyrights to 56 Years By Gary Symons TLL Editor in Chief Senator Josh Hawley is introducing legislation targeting Disney that would have a devastating impact on the US licensing industry. The move comes as Hawley and other GOP leaders retaliate against The Walt Disney Company for its stated opposition to the so-called "Don't … [Read more...] about Licensing Law Shocker: Hawley Targets Disney With Bill To Limit Copyright Protection
Experiential Licensing: Batman Interactive Experience Launching at Spyscape
A new interactive experience from DC and SPYSCAPE will allow Batman fans to unleash their inner superhero sidekick. SPYSCAPE is part of Cipher Corp Ltd, a multi-disciplinary imagineering company creating innovative brands, culture and technology. SPYSCAPE's mission is to inspire people to uncover their own superpowers through physical and digital experiences based around spy … [Read more...] about Experiential Licensing: Batman Interactive Experience Launching at Spyscape
San Diego Comic Convention Appoints IMG as its First-Ever Licensing Agency
By Allison Watkinson TLL Reporter The San Diego Comic Convention, organizer of the annual Comic-Con event, has appointed global licensing agent, IMG as its first-ever exclusive licensing representative. With a presence in over 30 countries, IMG is known for managing athletes and fashion icons, owning and operating hundreds of live events annually, and being a leading … [Read more...] about San Diego Comic Convention Appoints IMG as its First-Ever Licensing Agency