Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), a premier next generation global content leader, and Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS), a global company creating the world's best play experiences, are teaming up to prove that "friendship is magic" as the two companies bring Hasbro's world famous MY LITTLE PONY franchise to the big screen. Meghan McCarthy, fan-favorite writer and producer for the My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic animated series, is penning the screenplay, which will be produced by Hasbro's Allspark Pictures. Lionsgate will be distributing and marketing the film globally (except in China). Tony® and Emmy Award®-winning actress Kristin Chenoweth will voice a new character in the film, which is Hasbro's first animated feature.
The MY LITTLE PONY brand has been enchanting fans of all ages worldwide for more than 30 years with its socially relevant messages of acceptance and friendship. What started in 1983 as a toy line of colorful ponies with unique symbols, called "cutie marks," has since exploded into international, multi-media, pop culture phenomena that grossed over $1 billion in retail sales in 2014. The entertainment continues to engage and inspire kids and families in over 180 countries across the globe.
"We are pleased to partner with Hasbro to bring their brands to audiences in new and exciting ways," said Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Co-President Erik Feig. "Meghan McCarthy and the MY LITTLE PONY cast are a very talented and cohesive team whom we're happy to be working with and we're excited about the addition of the very talented Kristin Chenoweth, as we explore new aspects of these characters and new story opportunities for the franchise."
"We are thrilled to expand the MY LITTLE PONY story to the big screen, and take these beloved characters on a new and unexpected journey that will delight fans of all ages," said Stephen Davis, Chief Content Officer, Hasbro, Inc. "It's an honor to add Kristin Chenoweth to the cast as the voice of an all new, never-before-seen MY LITTLE PONY character in the film. Her incredible Broadway and silver screen performances in "Wicked," "Glee," and many more make her the perfect fit for this animated, musical adventure."
In the movie, a new dark force threatens Ponyville, and the Mane 6 – Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy and Rarity – embark on an unforgettable journey beyond Equestria where they meet new friends and exciting challenges on a quest to use the magic of friendship and save their home. The MY LITTLE PONY film will feature all new music with the Mane Six characters voiced by Tara Strong, Cathy Weseluck, Andrea Libman, Tabitha St. Germain and Ashleigh Ball. Jayson Theissen is directing. Brian Goldner and Stephen Davis are producing the film with Meghan McCarthy and Michael Vogel co-executive producing.
Creative executives Jeyun Choi Munford and Kyle Benn will oversee the movie on behalf of Lionsgate, and Josh Feldman is overseeing development on behalf of Hasbro. The deal was negotiated by Jean Chi, Executive Vice President, Business and Legal Affairs for Lionsgate, and Michael Eisner, Senior Vice President, Business and Legal Affairs for Hasbro. This is the second film from Lionsgate and Hasbro, who are also producing a live action film based on the iconic board game, MONOPOLY.
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