- In celebration of Angry Birds’ 15th anniversary, Rovio is partnering with LA-based comic book publisher Rocketship Entertainment and its Bottlerocket! imprint on a trio of Angry Birds graphic novels written by Eisner Award-winning author Paul Tobin (Adventure Time), plus a comic series from best-selling author Katie Cook (Star Wars). Aimed at middle-graders, the first graphic novel out of the gate will be The Haunting of Hog House in spring 2025, followed by Level Up and Breaking the Bank. But all three titles will be available later this year in a Kickstarter pre-order campaign with limited-edition merch.
- Abu Dhabi’s indoor theme park Warner Bros. World Yas Island has extended its partnership with Etihad Airways to build and launch the first-ever Warner Bros. World branded aircraft. Unveiled to the public on July 25, this Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner has iconic animated characters from Looney Tunes, Tom and Jerry, and DC Super Heroes splashed across its exterior; and the airline will hand out special packs for kids under age 10 that contain drawing activities, blankets, superhero capes, backpacks and water bottles. Zayed International Airport will also open a dedicated children’s space in the Etihad Airways Lounge.
- In a move to expand the European presence of Care Bears, Cloudco Entertainment has appointed Maurizio Distefano Licensing as the brand’s licensing agency in Italy. Licensees already working on this regional consumer products program include MC2 and J Brand International (fashion apparel) and International Games Trade (collectible figures). Plush toys from a yet-to-be-named Italian licensee will be heading to the country in early 2025.
- On behalf of brand owner King Features Syndicate, Bulldog Licensing has secured two new deals for Popeye in the UK. Halloween and carnival manufacturing company Smiffys will launch a range of kids costumes early next year, and healthy beverage maker Player Ammo recently released a limited-edition powdered energy drink and shaker bundle in celebration of the iconic sailor man’s 95th birthday.
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