Moonbug acquires "CoComelon" and "Blippi", becoming the largest Digital Kids Media Co. in the world

Moonbug Entertainment Ltd. has acquired two of the world's most successful children's programs to become the world's largest digital media company: CoComelon, the most watched YouTube channel in the world and the live action program Blippi. The company also announced that it has raised $ 120 million in funding to fuel further growth and make more acquisitions in the future.

Moonbug has forged new relationships with over 100 streaming platforms on a local and global scale including Netflix, Hulu, Apple TV, Sky and Roku, and has a target audience for the category on YouTube and Amazon Prime Video. The acquisition of CoComelon e Blippi increases Moonbug's monthly subscribers to over 235 million globally, surpassing the 7 billion average monthly views on YouTube alone.

“It is an extraordinary achievement to acquire two of the most beloved children's shows in the world. We are excited to support their continued growth and expand global entertainment franchise brands, ”said Renè Rechtman, co-founder and CEO of Moonbug. "It's a transformation step for our business."

CoComelon is a 3D animated series for preschoolers that has become the most watched YouTube channel in the world, with over 3,5 billion monthly views, excluding its category audience on Netflix. Known for his contagious positivity, Baby JJ and his siblings carry out daily activities and chores with enthusiasm and a sense of fun to help children at home do the same. The characters sing catchy songs that teach you to interact constructively with the world around them, from cleaning their toys, to preparing for bed and eating vegetables every evening.

“A CoComelon we tried to create adorable, likeable and universally recognizable characters. We think of JJ, YoYo and TomTom as our imaginary children, and over time we have built a family around them - parents, grandparents, animal friends, schoolmates, ”said creator Jay Jeon. “And we think a lot about our audience and what they are experiencing: growing, daily challenges, learning new things. Life! We hope they share experiences similar to those of our characters “.

Following his proven strategy, Moonbug plans to add new characters and storylines that continue CoComelonIt's message of joy and positivity, while introducing new products and toys so that families can interact with their favorite characters and themes in new ways. Moonbug will apply its model to increase the show's already broad reach through new licensing agreements and expanding its distribution globally in new languages ​​and on new platforms. It plans to launch a new line of toys that will be available to consumers in the coming weeks.

Blippi adds a live show to Moonbug's portfolio that explores the world seen through the eyes of a child. Drawing on the natural curiosity of children, he takes them on a journey of discovery, allowing them to see the world through an educational lens - fun along the way. It is a tour guide for doing all the things a child wants to do. Blippi's educational content has translated into a deep connection with its audience and a loyal following of over 24 million subscribers and 570 million average monthly views. Moonbug will also diversify the show with new characters and expand its successful toy line, along with apparel and licensing partnerships.

Il $ 120 million financing round it was led by Growth Equity (GS Growth), part of the Merchant Banking division of Goldman Sachs and Fertitta Capital. Raine and Felix Capital participated. The funds will be used for growth and to make further acquisitions in Moonbug's continuous push to consolidate the most interesting and popular properties in the children's space.

“We are thrilled to support Renè, John and the rest of the Moonbug team as they continue to create content for the next generation of children. Their strong diversified business portfolio combined with their creative capabilities and platform reach make them a true category leader in the global entertainment industry, ”said Nishi Somaiya, Partner of Goldman Sachs, who will join the board of Moonbug administration.

“We are grateful for the investment from our new and existing investors,” said Rechtman. “Seeing Moonbug reach this level of growth to become the world leader in digital content for children within two years is a true testament to the dedication of us and our investors to space. We look forward to the continued success that will come through new and existing brands. "