Key Takeaways
- Fanatics, a sports merchandising giant, is launching a new content arm called Fanatics Studios
- Fanatics Studios will create, finance, produce, and distribute various projects, including feature films, documentaries, and live event specials
- Initial projects include the official Olympic film for the LA28 Games, a documentary series on Tom Brady, and a partnership with ESPN to produce the 2026 ESPY Awards
- Fanatics Studios will work with partners such as WWE, MLB, and Fox Sports to create content
- The studio aims to bring fans closer to the action and redefine the intersection of sports and pop culture
Introduction to Fanatics Studios
Fanatics, the well-known sports merchandising company, is expanding its reach into the entertainment industry with the launch of Fanatics Studios. This new content arm will focus on creating, financing, producing, and distributing a wide range of projects, including feature films, documentaries, unscripted originals, live event specials, and premium digital series. With this move, Fanatics is solidifying its position as a major player in the sports platform, which already includes apparel, collectibles, betting, and live events like Fanatics Fest. The company’s founder, Michael Rubin, expressed his excitement about the launch, stating that Fanatics Studios will add an important content and media business to the company’s growing sports platform.
Partnerships and Projects
Fanatics Studios has already announced several high-profile partnerships and projects. One of its initial projects is the official Olympic film for the LA28 Games, which will highlight athletes, culture, and defining moments of the Games. The studio will also be working with Tom Brady on a documentary series called "One More Drive," which will follow the seven-time Super Bowl champion as he prepares for the Fanatics Flag Football Classic and explores a potential run at Team USA as flag football makes its Olympic debut at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Additionally, Fanatics Studios will be partnering with ESPN to produce the 2026 ESPY Awards, and will also be working with WWE, MLB, and Fox Sports on various content projects. These partnerships demonstrate the studio’s commitment to creating high-quality content that brings fans closer to the action.
Leadership and Vision
Michael Ratner, the CEO of OBB Media, will be serving as the CEO of Fanatics Studios, while also continuing to run OBB’s other businesses. Ratner expressed his enthusiasm for the new venture, stating that sports and pop culture are converging at the heart of the global entertainment landscape, and that Fanatics Studios is building a platform to redefine what is possible at that intersection. Rubin and Ratner’s vision for Fanatics Studios is to create content that enhances the fan experience and brings fans closer to the teams, players, sports, cultural moments, and events that they love. With their combined expertise and resources, Fanatics Studios is well-positioned to make a significant impact in the entertainment industry.
The Future of Fanatics Studios
The launch of Fanatics Studios marks an exciting new chapter for the company, and fans can expect to see a wide range of innovative and engaging content in the coming months and years. With its focus on creating high-quality, fan-centric content, Fanatics Studios is poised to become a major player in the entertainment industry. The studio’s launch event, which will be held in Los Angeles, will provide a glimpse into the company’s vision and plans for the future. As Fanatics continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the sports and entertainment industries, fans can expect to see new and exciting developments from Fanatics Studios. With its commitment to creating content that brings fans closer to the action, Fanatics Studios is sure to make a lasting impact on the entertainment landscape.
