New Ellation Unit to Create Original OTT Content

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. -- Ellation, the transformative media company home to industry-leading brands Crunchyroll and VRV, announced today the launch of Ellation Studios and the first Crunchyroll Originals series “High Guardian Spice.”

Ellation’s original content efforts will include production facilities in Burbank and Tokyo devoted to creating and developing new original shows for the Crunchyroll and VRV communities. Margaret Dean, former GM of Stoopid Buddy Stoodios and current president of Women in Animation, has been named head of studio for the new division.

As head of studio, Dean is charged with developing originals for both brands, including overseeing production for “High Guardian Spice,” the first-ever Crunchyroll Original Series, slated to premiere in 2019. Raye Rodriguez, a lifelong anime fan, is the creator of “High Guardian Spice” and his production team features an all-female writing room, along with a diverse and passionate group of artists and creatives. Audu Paden, director of the “Animaniacs” and other beloved animated series, joins Rodriguez as mentor.

Ellation’s original programming efforts build upon the existing content strategy of licensing and co-producing premium content for both Crunchyroll and VRV. Currently, Crunchyroll has co-produced over 50 series, including “Kiznaiver,” “Classroom of the Elite,” “Space Patrol Luluco” and “Laid-Back Camp.”