Saban Alum to Lead Funrise’s New IP & Entertainment Arm

Rich Magallanes, a former Saban Brands executive, has been named senior VP of development and production for Funrise’s newly launched IP and entertainment division.

Magallanes will oversee content development and production for Funrise’s entertainment properties, beginning with the upcoming animated series Rainbow Butterfly Unicorn Kitty, for which he will continue to serve as creator and showrunner. He will also manage the conception of new creative projects, forge new production partnerships and identify and vet potential content acquisitions.

Randy Shoemaker, Funrise’s senior VP of global brand marketing, will also oversee the company’s franchise management and global content distribution for original IPs, in addition to his current duties.

Before joining Funrise, Magallanes was responsible for the entire development slate and production of a number of shows at Saban Brands. Earlier in his career, he served as senior VP of current series and production at Nickelodeon.

“Rich is a great addition to the Funrise executive team and a perfect fit to lead our new IP division,” said King Cheng, the chief executive at Funrise. “Developing our own IP and entertainment properties is a strategic initiative for Funrise, and we are lucky to land such a talented and experienced individual. With Rich’s vast experience in developing kids’ content, we are confident he will not only deliver an amazing new show in Rainbow Butterfly Unicorn Kitty, but will also develop strong new IPs for Funrise.”

“Funrise is an exciting and innovative company, and I’m excited to be an integral part of their future growth,” added Magallanes. “I look forward to working with this passionate team and Funrise’s best-in-class partners to continue to create fantastic programming for kids and brand experiences that fans are going to love.”