Brian Robbins, the former co-CEO of Paramount Global and a longtime leader in children’s and family entertainment, has launched Big Shot Pictures, a new production company designed to develop family-focused IP through a digital-first lens.
The company is positioning itself at the intersection of online platforms and traditional studio distribution, reflecting broader shifts in how younger audiences discover and engage with content. Rather than relying on conventional greenlight models, Big Shot plans to incubate projects on digital platforms, particularly YouTube, before expanding successful concepts into films, series, and consumer-facing extensions.
As part of its launch slate, Big Shot has acquired the rights to Eloise at the Plaza, the classic children’s property created by Kay Thompson and illustrated by Hilary Knight. Robbins plans to develop both animated and live-action adaptations of the IP, with initial exposure intended to build awareness and audience connection online before scaling across film, television, consumer products, and experiential platforms.
Big Shot has also entered into a first-look theatrical production and distribution agreement with Sony Pictures Entertainment. Under the deal, Sony will have priority access to Big Shot’s original animated and hybrid projects intended for theatrical release, while the new company retains flexibility to test and refine concepts digitally. Sony is also among the strategic investors backing the venture.
Big Shot has secured approximately $100 million in funding from a range of investors. The company said it will work with creators, acquire existing digital channels, and launch original programming, using audience data and performance insights to guide larger-scale investments. “Big Shot believes that scaled audiences on YouTube are crucial to building awareness and fan love that will create tomorrow’s beloved IP,” Robbins said in a statement. “We will build for how kids actually discover and connect today. The opportunity couldn’t be more clear to us, and the time is now.”
The move marks a return to digital experimentation for Robbins, who previously co-founded Varsity Pictures and AwesomenessTV. AwesomenessTV was regarded as an early mover in developing digital-native content into broader entertainment brands.
The company expects to begin releasing digital content later this year.
