Following a highly-competitive bidding process, Italian-based RIVA Studios has emerged victorious in acquiring TeamTO, saving the beloved French animation studio from bankruptcy.
December 5, 2024 By Newsdesk
With a dynamic new executive team led by Marco Balsamo, Jay Oliva, and Tara Sibel Demren, RIVA’s ambitious and visionary plan will take TeamTO toward a brighter future as the studio approaches their 20th anniversary in 2025. The acquisition was officially approved by the Tribunal de Commerce de Paris (Commercial Court of Paris) today.
“TeamTO set a world-class standard for animation and this is a pivotal moment for the studio. Under this new direction, we’re not just continuing the studio’s legacy – we’re building a stronger, more ambitious company that’s ready to elevate that standard and redefine what’s possible,” shared Balsamo. “With our team’s vast experience, passion, and bold vision for the future, we’re ready to break new ground and shape the future of the industry that we all love”
Under this new leadership team, TeamTO will continue delivering acclaimed content, including Sony Pictures Television Kids’ THE CREATURE CASES as well as original hits JADE ARMOR and ANGELO RULES. Additionally, they will focus on developing new original franchises, including: JUNICHIRO JACKSON, AKIRA’S FLYING WHEELCHAIR, YELLOW CELLO, CRADLE: UNSOULED, ERA: THE LEGEND OF LUGH, and Corvus Belli’s INFINITY: PARADISE LOST.
“Opportunities like this are rare and I couldn’t be more excited to help lead TeamTO into a new era. In today’s evolving animation landscape, this is a golden opportunity to expand the studio into uncharted territories that will push creative boundaries through innovative visual styles and immersive stories that will inspire audiences around the world,” added Oliva. “I can’t wait for everyone to see what’s next!”
The studio will continue operating from Valence and Paris, retaining majority of its staff to ensure a seamless transition on all current and upcoming series and films. TeamTO founders Guillaume
Hellouin and Corinne Kouper will continue as executive advisors while also serving as executive producers on current and upcoming projects. They will work closely with the new leadership team to ensure seamless collaboration on all productions.
“We couldn’t be happier as we know this leadership team will honor our two decades of creative excellence with a visionary plan that will ensure TeamTO’s success for another 20 years and beyond,” said Hellouin.