AI-powered animation studio Toonstar and HarperCollins Publishers have entered into a multi-year agreement to develop and produce a slate of direct-to-audience animated series based on titles from the publisher’s catalogue.
The collaboration will focus on adapting select HarperCollins properties into digital-first animated content aimed at family audiences. The first project in development is Friendship List, based on the book series by Lisa Greenwald. In tandem, HarperAlley plans to publish a graphic novel tied to the animated series.
“HarperCollins has always embraced innovation that serves our authors and readers by finding new ways to bring great stories to readers wherever they are,” said Liate Stehlik, CEO and Publisher, US Trade, HarperCollins Publishers (pictured). “Toonstar’s proven ability to translate beloved stories into engaging animation, while keeping artists at the centre 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.”
The agreement underscores a broader push among publishers and studios to extend established IP into digital and streaming formats. For Toonstar, the deal expands its strategy of building creator-led animated franchises distributed directly to consumers.
“HarperCollins has one of the most cherished catalogues in publishing,” said John Attanasio, CEO and co-founder of Toonstar. “We’re honoured to bring Friendship List to life as an animated series. Our artist-centred approach ensures these beloved characters and stories stay true to the author’s vision, while our Ink & Pixel production technology enables fast, high-quality production at scale which unlocks the ability to meet audiences where and when they enjoy content today.”
“Partnering with Toonstar gives us an exciting new opportunity to bring the characters and stories in the Friendship List series to life for families in a new way,” added Rich Thomas, SVP, executive director of publishing, HarperCollins Children’s Books.
Toonstar was founded by Attanasio and Luisa Huang and focuses on producing short-form and serialised animation using a technology-enabled production model.
