Key Takeaways
- The media rights to the Chia Pet brand have been acquired by Rakia Media and Crystal City Entertainment, with plans to develop an animated feature film or series.
- The acquisition aims to build on the brand’s legacy and potential for the future, with over 30 million Chia Pets sold worldwide since its debut in 1977.
- The production team, including Adam Jay Epstein, Ari Daniel Pinchot, and Jonathan Rubenstein, have a strong background in film and TV production, with credits including "The Ides of March," "The God Committee," and "Lee Daniels’ The Butler."
- The Chia Pet brand has remained a recognizable icon in pop culture history, with new figures and collaborations being released, including those based on modern IP and celebrities.
Introduction to the Acquisition
The media rights behind the beloved Chia Pet brand have been acquired by writer and producer Adam Jay Epstein and producers Ari Daniel Pinchot and Jonathan Rubenstein via their IP holding company, Rakia Media, and their film and TV production banner, Crystal City Entertainment. This acquisition marks an exciting new chapter for the Chia Pet brand, which has been a staple of pop culture since its debut in 1977. With the acquisition, the trio is planning to develop an animated feature film or series, bringing the iconic brand to new heights.
The Chia Pet Brand
For those who may not be familiar, Chia Pets are terracotta figures on which chia sprouts are applied and grow to resemble hair or fur. The brand became a pop culture sensation in the 1980s, thanks in part to its ubiquitous TV commercials and catchy theme song. Over 30 million Chia Pets have been sold worldwide, and the brand continues to release new figures based on modern IP and celebrities, such as Netflix’s "Wednesday," "Rick and Morty," and rapper Ice Spice. The brand’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and versatility.
The Production Team
The production team behind the acquisition has a strong background in film and TV production. Adam Jay Epstein is a writer and producer with credits including "Not Another Teen Movie" and "The Unsettling." Ari Daniel Pinchot and Jonathan Rubenstein have produced a range of films, including "The Ides of March," "The God Committee," and "Lee Daniels’ The Butler." The team is excited to bring their expertise to the Chia Pet brand, with Epstein stating, "Chia Pets have been featured on our shelves since childhood and we’re thrilled to help grow the brand to new heights." The team’s experience and passion for the brand make them well-suited to develop an animated feature film or series that will delight both old and new fans.
Partnerships and Collaborations
The Rakia Media and Crystal City team is actively exploring strategic partnerships and collaborators to fully realize the commercial and storytelling potential of the Chia Pet franchise. This approach will enable the team to tap into the brand’s vast potential and create new and exciting content that will appeal to a wide range of audiences. Joel Weinshanker, CEO of Chia Pet brand owner Ad Populum, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, "I’m excited to work with a team that understands both its legacy and its potential for the future." The collaboration between Rakia Media, Crystal City, and Ad Populum is a key factor in the brand’s future success.
Rakia Media’s IP Acquisitions
This is Rakia Media’s second IP acquisition, following the "Backyard Sports" video game franchise, which is being relaunched alongside Playground Productions. The company’s focus on acquiring and developing iconic brands demonstrates its commitment to creating engaging and memorable content. The acquisition of the Chia Pet brand is a significant addition to Rakia Media’s portfolio, and the company is well-positioned to leverage the brand’s recognition and appeal to create new and exciting content.
Conclusion and Future Plans
In conclusion, the acquisition of the Chia Pet brand by Rakia Media and Crystal City Entertainment marks an exciting new chapter for the beloved brand. With a strong production team and a clear vision for the brand’s future, the possibilities are endless. As the team moves forward with developing an animated feature film or series, fans of the brand can look forward to seeing their favorite Chia Pets come to life in new and exciting ways. With its rich history and enduring popularity, the Chia Pet brand is poised for continued success, and the acquisition by Rakia Media and Crystal City Entertainment is a key factor in its future growth and development.
