Endemol Shine UK Buys into Animation House Simon’s Cat

LONDON: Endemol Shine UK has acquired a controlling share in the animation company Simon’s Cat.

The London-based outfit—founded by illustrator, animator and director Simon Tofield—is behind the digital comedy series Simon’s Cat. The worldwide hit has had more than 650 million views and 3.5 million subscribers on YouTube. The series will now become fully integrated into the Endemol Beyond premium channel and distribution network. Endemol Shine UK and Simon's Cat will also be looking to further expand the property in areas such as TV, publishing, licensing and merchandising, while also exploring new platforms.

Laurence Jones, the commercial director at Endemol Shine UK, said: “Simon Tofield is a creative entrepreneur and has built his business into an international online success. Simon’s Cat is a brilliant example of how an original brand created on YouTube can reach and delight huge audiences. Millions of fans around the world love the mischievous and funny Simon’s Cat and there is enormous potential for growth, whilst staying true to the brand.”

“Endemol Shine Group has a fantastic reputation and a world-class premium channel network in Endemol Beyond,” said Tofield. “We’re looking forward to the next step of our relationship with the company and collaborating with the creative and commercial teams.”