Kartoon Studios Appoints Creative Team for “Winnie the Pooh” CP

Following Kartoon Studios’ announcement last week regarding the 2025 Christmas Eve premiere of “Kartoon Studio’s Winnie-The-Pooh,” the company has announced a team of proven executives to drive the property’s development, production, retail and global distribution strategy. The property's development, production and growth are funded by non-dilutive production financing of $30 million led by Catalyst Venture Partners.

The global consumer products business will be led by veteran licensing executive, Ryan Gagerman, who has held senior positions at Paramount Pictures, Electronic Arts and DIC Entertainment. Gagerman has been appointed head of global licensing for “Kartoon Studios’ Winnie-The-Pooh,” and is responsible for building the brand across licensing categories, including toys, electronics, publishing, apparel and more.  

“Kartoon Studios Winnie-The-Pooh,” currently in pre-production, will be directed by multiple Emmy Award-winning director, Michael Maliani. Adding to the production is Sam Morrison, a member of the writing team for “Peppa Pig,” who serves as head writer. Former managing director of Disney Channel Worldwide and current president of Kartoon Channel! Worldwide and head of international sales, Paul Robinson, will drive international sales.                        

“Content sales are essential, but it is the sale of licensed consumer products that drive outsized returns and truly excites our group,” says Steven A. Horowitz, senior managing director, Winnie the Pooh SPV and its parent company, Catalyst Venture Partners. “During a week where an animated film dominated the global box office for the second week in a row, we are reminded of the importance of proven brands and stories that speak to families and the fundamental appeal of animation. The team Kartoon Studios has assembled to lead this exciting new Winnie-The-Pooh is world class and knows exactly how to make great content for kids, build impactful global entertainment brands, and drive a global consumer products business.”

“Years ago, I had the privilege to work with Ryan Gagerman when he oversaw the global rollout of ‘Strawberry Shortcake,’ which generated over $5 billion of retail sales under his leadership,” says Andy Heyward, chairman, chief executive officer, Kartoon Studios. “He is the perfect executive to spearhead our global consumer products and retail program for this brand. Similarly, Paul Robinson, a renowned industry executive and our head of international, will no doubt deliver on the global distribution, creating global awareness for this new and exciting version of the A.A. Milne classic.”  

Gagerman is an accomplished executive with a career in entertainment and consumer products. Before joining Kartoon Studios, Gagerman served as global licensing director at Electronic Arts, where he delivered high-profile partnerships, expanded the global location-based entertainment business and top games like “FIFA,” “Madden,” “Mass Effect” and “Plants vs. Zombies.” 

Previously, Gagerman was vice president at Paramount Pictures in the consumer products and recreation group, where he supported the Transformers franchise and helped monetize Paramount’s catalog with films, including “The Godfather,” “Grease” and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” 

Gagerman began his career at DIC Entertainment, where he rose to the role of vice president of global consumer products. He worked on high-profile brands, including Strawberry Shortcake, and led his division to become the organization’s largest revenue generator.