Tag Archives: King Features Syndicate

Launch of Netflix show inspires raft of deals for Cuphead

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Global gaming phenomenon Cuphead is building on its successful international presence with new products and partners tied to Netflix’s The Cuphead Show!, which debuted on February 18. Since launch, The Cuphead Show! has made the Top 10 Kids list in over 90 countries.

Studio MDHR’s eight-time platinum-selling video game Cuphead has been a global sensation since its 2017 release and is continuing the momentum with new licensing partners across a wide range of product categories tied both to the new Netflix series and the classic video game, including publishing, apparel, home decor and novelties. Cuphead is represented for licensing and entertainment by King Features Syndicate, a unit of Hearst and home to some of the world’s most popular entertainment characters.

Cuphead and Mugman characters and a few new faces from the show have jumped off the TV screen and into homes through a curated collection of products from iam8bit, available now. Known by fans for crafting unique and memorable experiences and products inspired by their favourite brands, the online store includes T-shirts, socks and pins as well as a limited-edition, 1930s-era-inspired art poster celebrating The Cuphead Show! launch.

Additionally, activewear, dresses, loungewear, jackets and more from Mad Engine are available at Amazon.com; a line of artisanal hot sauces and craft coffees starring Cuphead, Mugman, the Devil, Elder Kettle, Ms. Chalice and King Dice are also in the works with Jade City Foods and will be available at www.inkwellislesstore.com; and vinyl collectible figures from Youtooz will debut this spring.

The Cuphead Show! is also being supported by a full children’s publishing programme from Random House Children’s Books set to launch this May, which includes Screen Comix, frame-by-frame retellings of the episodes in comic book form, as well as Step Into Reading, C&A, Little Golden Books and 8×8 formats.

The first books in the series, a Screen Comix titled “Handle With Care” and a first Step Into Reading book titled “Welcome to the Inkwell Isles”, are available for pre-order now and will be officially released on May 3, 2022.

Additionally, The Art of The Cuphead Show! coffee table book is currently in development with Dark Horse Comics and slated for release in Q2 2023. Dark Horse has also renewed its worldwide deal to further extend the existing lineup of Cuphead books based on the original video game following the introduction of its The Art of Cuphead art book and graphic novels to international markets.

“It’s an unbelievable full-circle moment to see Cuphead, which was so inspired by classic cartoons of the 1930s, become a cartoon of its own made with such craft and care by the amazing team at Netflix Animation,” says Studio MDHR Co-Director Chad Moldenhauer. “We take great care in working closely with our merchandising partners to ensure that we are proud of the things that are created for the Cuphead community, and it’s wonderful to see the same care being taken by great partners to represent the world of The Cuphead Show!”

Cuphead’s classic animation style and design will also be featured on new products, including metal art posters from Displate; additional vinyl figures and plushies from Youtooz; puzzles and novelty items from Toynk Toys; and Funko has recently launched new Cuphead collectible figures, apparel and accessories worldwide. Plus, hats, stickers, keychains and more from Scotty Gear Retail Corp will release later this year.

Cuphead publishing is still going strong with the aforementioned Dark Horse programme expansion, a series of game-based prose novels from Little, Brown Young Readers and a mini kit book from Running Press that will launch summer 2022. And in Japan, 1000Toys recently debuted new action figures, while new branded apparel and accessories are set to launch from Kaitentai and Smarprise, as well as new novelties and giftables from Ensky.

“Cuphead’s incredible momentum continues with the debut of its groundbreaking animated series on Netflix and the DLC is hot on its heels,” says King Features Vice President, North America Licensing, Jarred Goro. “We are proud to work with these incredible partners to launch products that fans will love. Cuphead is a true pop culture phenomenon and we look forward to expanding the brand’s presence around the world.”

Cuphead is celebrated by fans around the world for its arcade-action gameplay, highly original art design and award-winning soundtrack, featuring almost three hours of original jazz, early big band and ragtime music. A true cultural phenomenon, the game has sold millions of units worldwide and won over 20 major awards. In addition to a wide range of new product releases, this year, fans can look forward to the June 30 release of The Delicious Last Course, the highly anticipated next chapter to the hit video game.

 

King Features Syndicate scores slate of new partnerships for Popeye and Olive Oyl

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King Features Syndicate, a unit of Hearst, has announced that it is growing its global licensing programs for Popeye and Olive Oyl with a slate of new partnerships.

The expansion extends across the promotions, food and beverage categories and includes new territories, partners and product lines that honour the legacy of King Features’ classic characters from the extensive Popeye universe, including Olive Oyl and Wimpy.

In Asia, Popeye and Olive Oyl have starring roles in several key promotions, including a renewal of their deal with Manga Coordinate Co and JOYL to produce an advertising campaign starring the pair, played by local celebrities, to promote the popular Ajinomoto Olive Oil in the Japanese market for the second year in a row. In 2020, Popeye was played by pop star Satoshi Ohno, and in the 2021 campaign, the role of Olive Oyl was played by actress Ayami Nakajo. Each campaign included print ads as well as TV commercials.

Also in the territory, Japanese video producer AOI Pro Inc and its AI technology client Laboro.AI Inc are tapping into the classic tale of Popeye and Olive’s love story to emphasise the innovation of AI technology by creating state-of-the-art clips for a Valentine’s Day commercial, set to run through summer 2022.

Additionally, Japanese soft drink manufacturer Ito En is featuring Popeye in a promotional campaign for its Aojiru vegetable drinks, while Runival Sdn Bhd is reaching audiences in Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia via a promotional Popeye Virtual Run campaign.

In China, the salty sailor will take part in a promotional campaign featuring glass cups, recycling bags, brooches, face masks, T-shirts and stickers, which will be sold across the territory by Guangzhou Circleplus Culture Co, while South Korea-based Sunwoo & Company began a worldwide launch of limited-edition Popeye theme packs for Android, version 9.0 and higher, via the Samsung Galaxy store in 2021. Additional theme packs will be released in 2022.

The new partnerships in Japan were brokered by King Features’ agent in the territory, Copyrights Asia, while Medialink Animation Ltd brokered the deals in China, Singapore and Indonesia.

Popeye is also expanding globally into the food and beverage category, with several new deals this past year for the sailorman and his friends debuting around the globe.

Popeye continues to be a favorite in Japan, with multiple new deals debuting throughout the year, including Shogakukan Shueisha Productions for various Popeye-inspired housewares, apparel and accessories, spinach from Rainbowworks and custom Popeye desserts and houseware products from Baobab Inc.

In North America, Popeye is also making his mark in promotions by starring in Accenture’s global ad campaign advertising the transformational power of its intelligent ops services, and his burger-loving friend Wimpy was featured in an advertisement for Google Pay. Most recently, artist Jeff Koons released “Popeye Skateboard,” a reinterpretation of his 2008 oil painting “Triple Popeye” as part of The Skateroom collection. Proceeds from the charitable launch, in collaboration with Qatar Museums, aid children in need.

In the food category, Popeye has expanded his long-term partnership with Taylor Farms by introducing new product lines. And in a deal negotiated by King Features’ Canadian agent, Segal Licensing, Jade City Foods has launched an online Popeye Foods shop offering a variety of new consumables including coffee, hot cocoa, hot sauces and more inspired by Popeye, Olive Oyl, Bluto, Wimpy and Swee’Pea.

“The characters from the Popeye universe deeply resonate with fans around the world, and it’s thrilling to see one of our fan favorites experiencing continued growth,” says Carla Silva, vice president and general manager, global head of licensing at King Features. “And fans should stay tuned because we’re kicking off the new year with even more exciting promotions and products!”

For the latest brand news on Popeye and his friends, please visit Popeye.com.

King Features and Jade City Foods introduce Popeye foods line

King Features Syndicate scores slate of new partnerships for Popeye and Olive Oyl

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King Features Syndicate, a unit of Hearst, has announced that it is growing its global licensing programs for Popeye and Olive Oyl with a slate of new partnerships.

The expansion extends across the promotions, food and beverage categories and includes new territories, partners and product lines that honour the legacy of King Features’ classic characters from the extensive Popeye universe, including Olive Oyl and Wimpy.

In Asia, Popeye and Olive Oyl have starring roles in several key promotions, including a renewal of their deal with Manga Coordinate Co and JOYL to produce an advertising campaign starring the pair, played by local celebrities, to promote the popular Ajinomoto Olive Oil in the Japanese market for the second year in a row. In 2020, Popeye was played by pop star Satoshi Ohno, and in the 2021 campaign, the role of Olive Oyl was played by actress Ayami Nakajo. Each campaign included print ads as well as TV commercials.

Also in the territory, Japanese video producer AOI Pro Inc and its AI technology client Laboro.AI Inc are tapping into the classic tale of Popeye and Olive’s love story to emphasise the innovation of AI technology by creating state-of-the-art clips for a Valentine’s Day commercial, set to run through summer 2022.

Additionally, Japanese soft drink manufacturer Ito En is featuring Popeye in a promotional campaign for its Aojiru vegetable drinks, while Runival Sdn Bhd is reaching audiences in Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia via a promotional Popeye Virtual Run campaign.

In China, the salty sailor will take part in a promotional campaign featuring glass cups, recycling bags, brooches, face masks, T-shirts and stickers, which will be sold across the territory by Guangzhou Circleplus Culture Co, while South Korea-based Sunwoo & Company began a worldwide launch of limited-edition Popeye theme packs for Android, version 9.0 and higher, via the Samsung Galaxy store in 2021. Additional theme packs will be released in 2022.

The new partnerships in Japan were brokered by King Features’ agent in the territory, Copyrights Asia, while Medialink Animation Ltd brokered the deals in China, Singapore and Indonesia.

Popeye is also expanding globally into the food and beverage category, with several new deals this past year for the sailorman and his friends debuting around the globe.

Popeye continues to be a favorite in Japan, with multiple new deals debuting throughout the year, including Shogakukan Shueisha Productions for various Popeye-inspired housewares, apparel and accessories, spinach from Rainbowworks and custom Popeye desserts and houseware products from Baobab Inc.

In North America, Popeye is also making his mark in promotions by starring in Accenture’s global ad campaign advertising the transformational power of its intelligent ops services, and his burger-loving friend Wimpy was featured in an advertisement for Google Pay. Most recently, artist Jeff Koons released “Popeye Skateboard,” a reinterpretation of his 2008 oil painting “Triple Popeye” as part of The Skateroom collection. Proceeds from the charitable launch, in collaboration with Qatar Museums, aid children in need.

In the food category, Popeye has expanded his long-term partnership with Taylor Farms by introducing new product lines. And in a deal negotiated by King Features’ Canadian agent, Segal Licensing, Jade City Foods has launched an online Popeye Foods shop offering a variety of new consumables including coffee, hot cocoa, hot sauces and more inspired by Popeye, Olive Oyl, Bluto, Wimpy and Swee’Pea.

“The characters from the Popeye universe deeply resonate with fans around the world, and it’s thrilling to see one of our fan favorites experiencing continued growth,” says Carla Silva, vice president and general manager, global head of licensing at King Features. “And fans should stay tuned because we’re kicking off the new year with even more exciting promotions and products!”

For the latest brand news on Popeye and his friends, please visit Popeye.com.

King Features and Jade City Foods introduce Popeye foods line

New US licensing partnerships for Moomins

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King Features Syndicate has announced a robust new licensing programme for the children’s property Moomin as the brand continues to gain momentum in North America. This growth is supported by new consumer product launches, the recent theatrical release of TOVE – a new biopic about Moomins’ creator Tove Jansson – and a Moomin exhibit now open at the National Children’s Museum in Washington, D.C.

On November 5, Just Peachy, a California clothing and accessories brand, released its line of Moomin-inspired apparel, accessories and novelty items including hoodies, sweatshirts, bags and woven throw blankets. Additionally, the fan-favourite Ripple Junction apparel line has been renewed with Moomin-themed tops, loungewear, joggers, swimsuits, mobile phone accessory, pins and more. Moomin characters will appear on assorted apparel, accessories, footwear and skateboard decks from Rowing Blazers in 2022.

The expanded Moomin licensing programme comes on the heels of the biopic TOVE, which was theatrically released in the U.S. earlier this year. The movie follows the artistic struggles and unconventional personal life of Tove Jansson, who found worldwide success from an unexpected side project: the creation of the beloved world of the Moomins.

Now through January 9, 2022, fans in the United States can experience the magic of Moominvalley in person at the National Children’s Museum in D.C. by visiting the “Moomin Animations – Thrills and Cuddles” exhibit. The exhibit is produced by the world’s only Moomin Museum and brought to the U.S. by the Embassy of Finland in Washington, D.C. Combining texts and colourful illustrations, the exhibit retells the story of how the Finnish author Tove Jansson’s beloved Moomin books and comics have been brought to life using animation. Families can enjoy Moomin animation from different eras and parts of the world, from the very first Moomin film to premiere on TV to the most recent, award-winning 3D animation series, Moominvalley. The exhibition is co-produced by the Moomin Museum, the Embassy of Finland in Washington, D.C., National Children’s Museum, Gutsy Animations Ltd. and Moomin Characters Ltd., and is supported by Finarte and Lovi Ltd.

As part of the annual Kids Euro Festival in D.C., organised by the EU Delegation to the United States, the Embassy of Finland and National Children’s Museum distributed 400 free tickets to the exhibition this autumn. In addition, the festival offers a variety of free online programming for everyone to enjoy at home. Upcoming events include The Music of Moominvalley (Saturday, November 20, 10:30 am ET), in which composers Samuli Kosminen and Jarmo Saari share how they made the music for the hit TV series Moominvalley (Gutsy Animations, 2019), and Christmas in Moominvalley (Saturday, December 11, 10:30 am ET). Log on to hear a Moomin story written by Tove Jansson and learn about the holiday traditions of Finland.

“Moomin and its charming characters are known around the world for friendship, love and adventure and have become a true cultural phenomenon,” says King Features Vice President and General Manager, Global Head of Licensing, Carla Silva. “We are thrilled to be sharing the Moomin values with consumers in North America through local products and experiences that the whole family can enjoy.”

First debuted more than 75 years ago, Moomin has an extensive fan base across European territories and is now gaining popularity in North America. The 3D CGI series Moominvalley currently airing in multiple territories around the world.

 

King Features gives its classic animated character Olive Oyl a modern rebrand with fearlessness at its centre

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She’s one of the classic animation world’s most iconic females that has, for generations, been perceived as the archetypal damsel in distress and focus of Popeye and Bluto’s embittered love triangle, but for Olive Oyl, the course of history is about to be altered for good.

King Features Syndicate has this week unveiled a new look and vibe surrounding the heroic Olive Oyl, highlighting her attributes as a star in her own right, delivering laughs to readers long before Popeye ever entered the picture. And now, following decades of living with Popeye’s stardom, the world is finally about to meet the true Olive.

Created in 1919, Olive was groundbreaking for the era as one of the first, globally recognized female cartoon characters who did not conform to traditional female stereotypes. Tough and independent, Olive Oyl never required support from a partner, providing for herself first as an entertainer and later through other careers. And while she had many interested suitors over the years, she chose never to marry or start a family.

Her strong will and affable nature make her as relevant today as she was 100 years ago.

A description of her character, issued by King Features Syndicate, read: ‘From her physical appearance to her personality quirks, Olive embraces those things that make her unusual and truly loves herself. She is a huge romantic who is proud to be a lady but doesn’t feel bound to act lady-like.

‘A smart and empowered woman with high standards, she is also lighthearted and adaptable with a wry sense of humor. Olive is self-assured, strong and not afraid to stand up for herself or get her hands dirty but also knows when to lean on her friends.

‘Her dynamic personality shows that a woman can be many things – powerful, driven, vulnerable and sensitive – and that emotions are meant to be felt and expressed. Her confidence radiates and inspires others of all ages, gender identity and backgrounds ­to celebrate their unique selves.’

As part of her rebrand, King Features has launched a set of new Olive Oyl trend guides, depicting the character as the embodiment of a lifestyle filled with humor and love. Her design incorporates a modern twist on retro fashion while her unique physical depiction remains the same.

Flexibility is also a key identifier for Olive – both physically and emotionally – so several poses that showcase her elasticity are included. The character art is thoughtfully paired with entertaining yet insightful editorial anecdotes that are relatable to her audience.

“Timing couldn’t be more appropriate to reintroduce audiences to Olive Oyl,” said Carla Silva, vice president and general manager, global head of licensing, King Features.

“For too long this strong, confident and fearlessly female character has been viewed through a singular lens. With this rebrand we are not just introducing Olive to younger consumers for the first-time, we are also presenting more established fans with sides of her personality that they have likely never known before.

“Olive is not just a character, she represents an attitude and a lifestyle that appeals to a wide audience, one not limited by age, geography, gender or background. Olive is just Olive, and we’re ready to watch her take the world by storm.”

Over the decades, Olive Oyl has had a long, successful history in consumer products. Style makers around the world have been inspired by Olive’s confidence and glamorous self-perception, particularly those in the high-fashion space.

For over 20 years she has served as Moschino’s muse appearing in collections each year across product categories, most notably their CHEAPANDCHIC fragrance which is in its seventh iteration since launch in 1995. Other recent fashion collaborations of note include Iceberg, Joyrich, Monnalisa, Liu-Jo, Original Marines, United Colors of Benetton, DTRs with GAP, C&A, Zara and a 2021 Valentine’s Day retail program with C&A in Mexico.

Beginning in Spring 2022, fans will see Olive’s new style represented across a range of collaborations, with King Features seeking new partnerships for the character in categories including apparel, accessories, health & beauty, jewelry, handbags, wellness and more.

Pop culture specialist Boss Fight Studio partners with King Features to launch Popeye the Sailor action figures

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The pop culture specialist and action figures aficionado, Boss Fight Studio has struck up a new partnership with King Features Syndicate to create and launch a range of action figures and collectables based on Popeye the Sailor comics and cartoons.

The deal was brokered by FanGirl Consulting and Brand Management and marks the latest in a long line up of cult classic brands to have joined the Boss Fight Studio portfolio. An expert in the pop culture market, Boss Fight Studios already holds the license for Flash Gordon, The Phantom, and The Little Prince.

“Like so many, I grew up watching the classic Popeye animated cartoons,” said Andrew Franks, partner and art director at Boss Fight. “As an adult, I was drawn back to Popeye by E.C. Segar’s brilliant original comic strip. To be able to bring these characters to life as fully poseable toys is a dream.”

Jarred M. Goro, VP North American licensing at King Features, added: “This will be the fourth license we work with Boss Fight Studio on and we know their approach will bring these toys to life and quickly become fan favorites.”

Founded in 2013, Boss Fight Studio is known for its highly articulated, poseable action figures. The first wave of Popeye Classics action figures, anticipated to hit shelves late summer 2021, will include Popeye, Olive Oyl, Bluto and Castor Oyl.

The Popeye Classics figures will bring a new cult favorite to life and be a great complement to the Boss Fight arsenal of licenses.

“We’re digging deep into the comic strips to deliver Popeye toys like you’ve never seen before. Authentic styling, super articulation and great accessories – even packing in smaller characters like Swee’ Pea, Eugene The Jeep and Bernice The Whiffle Hen as bonuses,” added Franks.

“We can’t wait to bring these toys to market. We’re sure they will delight Popeye fans, and celebrate the rich 90 plus year legacy of these iconic characters.”

Pop culture specialist Boss Fight Studio partners with King Features to launch Popeye the Sailor action figures

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The pop culture specialist and action figures aficionado, Boss Fight Studio has struck up a new partnership with King Features Syndicate to create and launch a range of action figures and collectables based on Popeye the Sailor comics and cartoons.

The deal was brokered by FanGirl Consulting and Brand Management and marks the latest in a long line up of cult classic brands to have joined the Boss Fight Studio portfolio. An expert in the pop culture market, Boss Fight Studios already holds the license for Flash Gordon, The Phantom, and The Little Prince.

“Like so many, I grew up watching the classic Popeye animated cartoons,” said Andrew Franks, partner and art director at Boss Fight. “As an adult, I was drawn back to Popeye by E.C. Segar’s brilliant original comic strip. To be able to bring these characters to life as fully poseable toys is a dream.”

Jarred M. Goro, VP North American licensing at King Features, added: “This will be the fourth license we work with Boss Fight Studio on and we know their approach will bring these toys to life and quickly become fan favorites.”

Founded in 2013, Boss Fight Studio is known for its highly articulated, poseable action figures. The first wave of Popeye Classics action figures, anticipated to hit shelves late summer 2021, will include Popeye, Olive Oyl, Bluto and Castor Oyl.

The Popeye Classics figures will bring a new cult favorite to life and be a great complement to the Boss Fight arsenal of licenses.

“We’re digging deep into the comic strips to deliver Popeye toys like you’ve never seen before. Authentic styling, super articulation and great accessories – even packing in smaller characters like Swee’ Pea, Eugene The Jeep and Bernice The Whiffle Hen as bonuses,” added Franks.

“We can’t wait to bring these toys to market. We’re sure they will delight Popeye fans, and celebrate the rich 90 plus year legacy of these iconic characters.”

Archie Comics partners with Kate Spade New York for Betty Cooper and Veronica Ledge collection

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Kate Spade New York is to launch a collection of handbags, tote bags, backpacks, and more featuring characters from and with a look inspired by the classic 1940s Archie Comics.

In a deal brokered by King Features Syndicate, the likes of Betty Cooper and Veronica Ledge will now appear across a selection of Kate Spade New York bags and accessories. The classic comic book friends will come with their differing personal styles; Betty’s classic preppy flair, and Veronica’s sleek dark style, to bring the look at the comics to the collection.

“When you think of best friends, the first people that come to mind are Betty and Veronica,” said Archie Comics CEO and publisher Jon Goldwater. “Having the chance to partner with Kate Spade for this amazing collaboration is a dream, and Betty and Veronica are a perfect match for the Kate Spade New York brand.”

King Features Syndicate is the home to some of the world’s most popular entertainment characters and is the licensing agent for Archie Comics. Archie Comics’ own library consists of the likes of Archie, Jughead, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Katy Keene, and Josie and the Pussycats.

“We are thrilled to be working with Kate Spade New York on behalf of Archie Comics to bring Riverdale High’s most fashionable duo to fans across the nation and select markets around the globe,” said King Features vice president and general manager, global head of licensing Carla Silva. “This collection not only celebrates Betty and Veronica’s unique sense of style, but also the special bond of their friendship.”

The Kate Spade x Betty and Veronica collection is available worldwide at Kate Spade New York Outlet stores.

Other product launches King Features has recently fostered on behalf of Archie Comics include a Betty & Veronica x Torrid x Project Runway All-Stars apparel collaboration, apparel from Bioworld and Philcos, a gaming app from Ludia, collectable toys from Funko, toys from Super7, statues and miniatures from Icon Heroes, puzzles by Outset Media, Zynga slot machines and more.

Archie and Flash Gordon form alliance in one-off comic book collab for King Features and Archie Comics

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King Features Syndicate is partnering with Archie Comics for a crossover licensing deal that will see Archie’s Pals and Gals enter a new storyline with Flash Gordon in a one-off comic book, Archie Meets Flash Gordon.

The 48 page special issue will be written by Jeff Parker – who wrote Flash Gordon for Dynamite Entertainment – with art by Archie mainstay, Dan Parent. 

The exclusive comic book will see the Riverdale gang discover a crashed alien spaceship that will lead them to the planet Mongo and Ming the Merciless, with Flash Gordon in tow.

“I’m now a pretty big believer that the Riverdale gang can fit with practically any other characters and genres, but it’s best when they get to really flex and go way outside their zone like say, the planet Mongo with Flash Gordon, King of the Impossible, said Parker.

Flash Gordon was launched in 1934 as a newspaper comic strip created by Alex Raymond. The property is currently under the ownership of King Features Syndicate, the media firm known widely in the licensing space for its management of Popeye and Betty Boop IP.

“King Features and Archie Comics are a great team, so having our beloved characters, Flash Gordon and the Archie kids team up too, is an exciting moment for both of these classic brands,” said King Features Syndicate editorial director, Tea Fougner.

“To top it off, to work with such amazing talent like Dan Parent and Jeff Parker is an honour. Their love for all of these characters shines through every page, and we’re thrilled to share this story with fans new and old.”