Toonstar, an AI-powered animation studio, inked a multiyear deal with HarperCollins Publishers to co-produce a slate of original animated series based on select HarperCollins titles.
The partnership marks HarperCollins’ expansion into digital-first animation. The first project planned for development under the pact is “Friendship List,” based on Lisa Greenwald’s tween/teen book series that center on themes of friendship, self-discovery and navigating the challenges of growing up. In addition, HarperAlley (HarperCollins’s graphic novel imprint) will publish a graphic novel based on the Toonstar “Friendship List” series.
Toonstar, founded by Disney and Warner Bros. veterans John Attanasio and Luisa Huang, said the partnership with HarperCollins “reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to meaningful stories.”
“HarperCollins has one of the most cherished catalogs in publishing, with stories that have shaped people’s imaginations for generations,” said Attanasio, Toonstar’s CEO. “We’re honored to bring ‘Friendship List’ to life as an animated series. Our artist-centered approach ensures these beloved characters and stories stay true to the author’s vision, while our Ink & Pixel [AI] production technology enables fast, high-quality production at scale which unlocks the ability to meet audiences where and when they enjoy content today.”
Liate Stehlik, CEO and publisher of HarperCollins’ U.S. trade division, said the company “has always embraced innovation that serves our authors and readers by finding new ways to bring great stories to readers wherever they are.” She said Toonstar’s “proven ability to translate beloved stories into engaging animation, while keeping artists at the center of the process, makes them the ideal partner to bring ‘Friendship List’ and other popular titles to new audiences in formats today’s families love.”
L.A.-based Toonstar is repped by WME and law firm Hansen Jacobson. The animation studio’s investors include Founders Fund, Greycroft, Snap and GFR.
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