Gaumont Scoops Up TV Rights for Usagi Yojimbo Comic Book Series

Gaumont has optioned Usagi Yojimbo from creator, writer and illustrator Stan Sakai, and will develop the multi-generational comic book series into an animated TV show.

First published in 1984, the multi-award-winning comic book series will be co-produced by Gaumont, Sakai, James Wan’s Atomic Monster, and Dark Horse Entertainment’s Mike Richardson and Keith Goldberg, who will serve as executive producers. Chris Tongue will co-executive produce.

“Usagi Yojimbo has been much sought-after for many years, and we are honored to work with Stan Sakai to translate his multi-generational stories into the first-ever TV series,” commented Gaumont’s president of animation, Nicolas Atlan. “Usagi Yojimbo’s blend of history and mythology, clever balance between action and comedy, and real-world touchpoints combined with the supernatural, together with the passionate fan base that Stan has already amassed, makes this an incredibly exciting property to develop with our partners Atomic Monster and Dark Horse Entertainment.”

“We get fan mail from readers of all ages across the globe who have been asking to see Usagi Yojimbo in his own TV series,” added Sakai. “With Gaumont, James Wan and his team at Atomic Monster and Dark Horse Entertainment, we have the best creative talent on board to bring the adventures I have been creating for over 30 years to life.”

“I’ve been an admirer of Stan’s comic series for a long time and it’s an honor to have the opportunity to bring this character and the rich world that Stan’s created to life for a new generation,” said Wan of Atomic Monster.

“I’ve long admired Stan Sakai and his storytelling abilities,” said Richardson, the president of Dark Horse Entertainment. “Stan built an amazing world that Dark Horse has enjoyed exploring in comic book form. We’re thrilled to be part of further exploration in a new, exciting medium.”