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May 13, 2010 0

Saban buys back Power Rangers from Disney

Haim Saban, who launched the Power Rangers TV series in the ‘90s, has bought back the rights to the property. Disney has owned the Power Rangers since 2001, and Saban has now regained control of the brand in exchange for a reported $100 million.

In a new deal between Saban and children’s television network Nickelodeon, the network will begin airing past episodes of Power Rangers, along with 20 new episodes to be produced by Saban.

The acquisition is being made under Saban Brands, Saban’s new company aimed at acquiring entertainment and consumer brands. “I think this property has significant legs going forward if it’s in an environment where it is nurtured and supported as opposed to being part of a huge portfolio,” says Saban.

Watch the opening theme song and video  of the original Power Rangers here.

May 6, 2010 0

Haim Saban Forms New Brand Management And Licensing Company

Media investor Haim Saban is moving into brand management and licensing, The New York Times and others are reporting. The Saban Capital Group will devote $500 million to Saban Brands, a new company dedicated to acquiring entertainment and consumer brands and exploiting them through retail, television, and film channels.

Elie Dekel, former licensing and merchandising executive at 20th Century Fox, will lead the new effort.

“As media and consumer options become increasingly fragmented and proliferated, our underlying thesis is that properties that resonate with consumers today will only become more meaningful over time,” says Saban.

Haim Saban Goes Into Brand Management [NY Times]

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