Ex-Moonbug Execs Launch Kids & Teen Content Outfit

Ex-Moonbug execs Jiella Esmat and Karine Ahton have launched 8 Lions Entertainment, which will make content for kids and teens.

8 Lions said it will “harness the power of data driven insights to develop, create, and grow properties that resonate with kids and teens worldwide.” It is seeking to create fast-growing IP while forging synergies between east and west. Prior to its official launch, 8 Lions represented YouTube channel Cosmic Kids in negotiations for its first ever TV series, Jaime’s Yoga Adventures, a newly-announced Sky Original.

Esmat was most recently Chief Revenue Officer of Amuse Animation & Amuse Studios, and previously held senior roles at Moonbug, Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures and NBCU. Co-founder Ahton, was former General Counsel of Moonbug and Envision Racing, and previously worked at Sanrio and ITV.

8 Lions’ launch team includes Lovely Chavez as VP Digital Strategy & Commercial Partnerships, former Director of Channels International at Moonbug and Channel Manager at Wildbrain. Helen Wong is Senior Commercial Manager, previously Market Development Manager for APAC and Senior Channel Manager at Moonbug, and Fletcher Williams is Corporate & Strategy Executive, former Head of Acquisitions and Strategy at Voldex Entertainment, and ex Moonbug and NBCU. Jerome Mazandarani, ex-Managing Director of Manga Entertainment and Crunchyroll UK, is advising on Anime and adult animation related projects.

“We are sourcing and creating diverse, engaging entertainment that reflects the genuine interests of kids and teens,” said Esmat. “Young people’s consumption habits have changed irreversibly and continue to evolve. We’re ensuring content is available to them in ways that recognise and cater to their expectations.”