WildBrain has acquired Personality AI, an AI platform that creates kid-safe experiences where audiences can interact with their favorite characters.
Last year, Amazon selected Personality AI to develop a generative AI platform for Amazon Kids+, resulting in Hey Peppa Pig, an interactive voice experience developed with Hasbro that lets kids talk with Peppa Pig through games and activities. It is available on Fire Kids tablets through Amazon Kids+.
The takeover includes $11 million in cash and 1 million in WildBrain shares, with $2 million in additional consideration on the first anniversary of the deal, payable in up to 1 million WildBrain shares and a cash balance. The deal also includes other performance-based cash considerations.
John Goscha, founder and CEO of Personality AI, becomes EVP of Personality AI at WildBrain, reporting to Josh Scherba, president and CEO of WildBrain. Personality AI’s team of experts in AI app and product creation will also transition to WildBrain.
“Our strategy at WildBrain is centered on building long-term value by activating IP on a global scale,” Scherba said. “As fan engagement continues to evolve, we believe interactive AI experiences represent an important new opportunity for brands to connect with audiences in meaningful ways. Personality AI enables more continuous interaction between fans and brands, strengthening our ability to deliver end-to-end franchise solutions to partners. This highly complementary acquisition positions us and Personality AI as a more integrated partner to IP owners globally through our in-house licensing agency, WildBrain CPLG, while helping support the continued growth of both our owned and partner brands.”
Goscha added, “At Personality AI, we share WildBrain’s commitment to children’s wellbeing, which is why we employ rigorous safety standards to ensure appropriate, authentic and trustworthy content and experiences for kids, parents and IP owners alike. I look forward to working with Josh and the WildBrain management team to bring our capabilities to more brands, platforms and audiences around the world while maintaining the high standards of safety, trust and innovation that have defined Personality AI.”
