SPORTS BUSINESS JOURNAL: Fanatics Studios launches with LA28, Fox, ESPN, MLB, WWE among partners

Fanatics is formally diving into the content production business by partnering with L.A.-based OBB Media to launch Fanatics Studios. The new division, helmed by CEO Michael Ratner, will look to create feature films, documentaries, live event specials, digital series and scripted/unscripted originals. At launch, Fanatics Studios will be partnering on content alongside LA28, Tom Brady, Fox Sports, ESPN, WWE and MLB.

As a content partner with LA28, Fanatics Studios will create film, TV and digital projects, and it also will produce the official Olympic film that will be aired theatrically.

Fanatics is deepening its ESPN relationship, which included production of this past summer’s “Fanatics Fest: All Access” TV special. This new deal comes with a committed number of hours of programming this year and in 2027, including a renewal of the “All Access” special. Fanatics Studios also will assist ESPN and Full Day Productions in producing the ESPY Awards. Fanatics and OBB recently signed a 10-year deal to continue to co-produce Fanatics Fest.