Genius Brands to acquire ChizComm

The marketing and media agency will work as an independent division and continue to operate out of its offices in Toronto, LA and New Jersey.
November 16, 2020

Genius Brands International has announced plans to acquire marketing and media agency ChizComm. The agreement will see ChizComm and ChizComm Beacon Media—its media research, planning and buying division—operate as independent divisions of Genius Brands.

ChizComm was founded in 2013 by Harold and Jennifer Chizick (pictured, middle and right). The company’s offices in Toronto, LA and New Jersey will remain open following the acquisition, and there are currently no layoffs planned as a result of the agreement.

ChizComm represents more than 30 toy companies (including MGA Entertainment, Jakks Pacific and Jazwares). In a statement, Genius Brands CEO Andy Heyward (pictured, left) said the acquisition of ChizComm will drive revenue and generate strategic opportunities for the company.

The deal comes as Genius continues to expand its family-focused efforts. The LA-based prodco recently partnered with NBA All-Star Shaquille O’Neal on a new animated series called Shaq’s Garage. The 26 x half-hour comedy follows a team of vehicles who go on secret missions around the world, and it’s scheduled to premiere in early 2022.

Genius has also brought on a number of new execs in recent months. Marc Rosenberg was appointed president of global brands and chief marketing officer, responsible for content sales and overseeing global licensing efforts. And Jessica Brinder has joined in a newly created role as VP of international distribution to oversee global content sales for the company’s kid-focused portfolio.

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