Skybound Expands Beyond The Walking Dead

As the owner of the popular Walking Dead franchise, Skybound has established a solid foundation for its business, but it is now exploring new opportunities beyond its core brand. According to Alpert, the company is no longer solely reliant on the undead for its revenue, having expanded its portfolio to include other properties and media formats. The Walking Dead still accounts for a significant portion of Skybound's business, but Alpert is confident that the company's diversified approach will ensure its long-term success. One of the key factors in Skybound's transformation was the launch of the animated Invincible series on Amazon Prime Video in 2021, which marked a significant shift in the company's public perception. Skybound has also partnered with Amazon's Audible to produce scripted podcasts, including Impact Winter, which has been renewed for two more seasons. The company's big-screen ambitions have been boosted by its partnership with Universal Pictures on the upcoming Nicolas Cage vampire comedy Renfield, set to debut in April. Alpert believes that Skybound's diverse range of projects has made it easier for the company to have conversations with investors and partners, as it is no longer seen as a one-trick pony. The company's gaming division, launched five years ago, has exceeded expectations, with Skybound co-chair Jon Goldman stating that video games are now one of the largest revenue streams for the company. Goldman highlights the company's philosophy of being in the "fan business," rather than just the film, TV, or video game business, and notes that Skybound's goal is to deliver what fans want, rather than limiting itself to specific distribution channels. The company has also invested in Mega Cat Studios, which is developing the pro wrestling RPG WrestleQuest, and has raised over $13 million through its Republic campaign, which allows individual investors to back the company. As Alpert explains, Skybound views itself as an entertainment company that connects creators with fans, and its goal is to provide fans with what they want, in any format they desire, whether it's playing, reading, watching, or sharing content.