Japanese producer/distributor TOHO International has acquired a 50% ownership stake in three anime IPs owned by LA-based Genius Brands International.

The deal covers teen-skewing Netflix series Bee and PuppyCat (pictured), as well as Bravest Warriors and Catbug for ages six to 11.

LA’s Frederator Networks—which Genius picked up in its acquisition of Wow! Unlimited Media in October 2021—produces all three 2D-animated series. 

As part of the deal, TOHO will co-produce new content with Frederator. The two companies will also collaborate on developing global consumer products programs for the IPs, with a particular focus on Asia. Bee and PuppyCat already has an online store that features apparel, accessories and posters.

This acquisition aligns with TOHO’s strategy to build on the growing popularity of anime in Western markets, according to a release. “All three of these characters and brands are exciting new examples of Western-inspired anime,” says Michael Hirsh, CEO of WOW! Unlimited Media.

In other Genius Brands news, the company is launching its Kartoon Channel! platform on Vizio Smart TV today, leveraging its catalogue of original (Superhero Kindergarten) and licensed (Peppa Pig) content. The kid-focused OTT channel will also join the in-flight entertainment lineup on British Airways, Qatar Airways, Aer Lingus and Iberia.