Eric Ellenbogen Named CEO of DHX Media

DHX Media has appointed Eric Ellenbogen as CEO and vice chair of the board of directors, succeeding Michael Donovan.

Ellenbogen has spent more than 30 years running entertainment businesses, including as president and CEO of Marvel Enterprises before its acquisition by Disney. He co-founded Classic Media in 2000, which was acquired by DreamWorks Animation (DWA) in 2012. At DWA, Ellenbogen became co-head of DreamWorks Classics and DreamWorks International Television. Following DWA’s sale to NBCUniversal, he became co-president of Classic Media.

Donovan, who stepped down as CEO, has also stepped down as executive chair and will continue to serve on the board as founding chair. Donald Wright has been appointed non-executive chair.

“We are delighted to announce that Eric will lead DHX Media in fully realizing the value of our extraordinary media assets,” said Wright. “Eric brings fresh leadership and a clear vision to our company, as well as a 30-year track record of creating significant shareholder value in the media space. In the nine months since he has joined our board, while also serving as a strategic advisor, he has worked closely with our senior leadership team and gained a deep understanding of our company. Given his broad perspective and decades of relevant industry experience and success, we are confident that Eric will be able to move the company forward from the get-go as CEO. We thank Michael for his many years of leadership and vision. As founder of DHX Media, Michael has played a significant role in building the company into the global entertainment force it is today. We are pleased that he will remain on the Board.”

“DHX Media has an unmatched portfolio of kids’ and family content with high-profile, beloved characters, including Peanuts, Teletubbies, Strawberry Shortcake, Caillou and Inspector Gadget,” said Ellenbogen. “In addition to its library and leading animation studios, DHX Media has built a truly unique asset in WildBrain—one of the largest kids’ networks on YouTube—with unparalleled reach and engagement. I’m pleased to have the opportunity to work with the management team, employees and our many valued partners and customers to deliver leading content and brands for audiences worldwide.”