Saban Brands and the Power Rangers Franchise: A Historical Perspective
The Power Rangers franchise has long been a favorite among children and adults alike, spanning across decades and evolving through various ownerships. One prominent period in this journey was associated with Saban Brands, a company developed specifically to oversee the rights to the Power Rangers. This article will delve into the history and ownership of this beloved franchise during the Saban Brands era and beyond.
The Origins and Early Years
Power Rangers first launched in 1993 under the production company Saban Entertainment. For the first eight years of the show, Saban Entertainment had the rights and control over the franchise. This initial phase saw the iconic series begin its journey on television, captivating audiences with its unique blend of action, science fiction, and heroism.
Saban's Reacquisition and Establishment of Saban Brands
However, in 2010, Saban Brands was established to manage the property of Power Rangers. This company was created to capitalize on the immense popularity and continued commercial success of the franchise. During this time, Saban Brands focused on releasing multiple seasons of the show and expanding its presence in various media formats. The unit operated under Saban Brands until 2018, when Saban sold its entertainment assets, including the Power Rangers franchise, to Hasbro for $522 million.
The Power Rangers Franchise under Saban Brands
Under Saban Brands, the franchise continued to evolve. After making the significant move to buy back the rights to Power Rangers from Disney in 2010, Saban Brands took a more strategic approach. They ensured continuity by finishing off the last season of Power Rangers, titled Wild Force, which had already been filmed before the transfer of rights to Disney.
The transition was smooth, as Saban Brands maintained stability all throughout the end of Disney's control and the beginning of its own. This strategic move allowed the franchise to continue without major disruptions, ensuring that fans could watch the Ninja Storm season without missing a beat. In Ninja Storm, filmed in New Zealand, the franchise gained a new home and a fresh start, which it has maintained ever since.
The Exit from Saban Brands and Current Ownership
As Saban Brands operated under this new structure, it was clear that the Power Rangers franchise had reached a new era of success. However, Saban Brands as a unit shuttered in 2018, marking the end of an era for the company. The decision to sell the entertainment assets, including the Power Rangers franchise, to Hasbro for $522 million signified a new chapter in the franchise's history.
Since then, Hasbro has taken over the reigns of the Power Rangers franchise, bringing a wealth of experience and resources to the table. Hasbro has continued to innovate and expand the franchise, ensuring that it remains a vibrant and beloved part of pop culture.
Conclusion
The journey of the Power Rangers franchise under Saban Brands was a significant period of activity and transition. From its initial acquisition by Saban Entertainment in 1993 to its reacquisition and management by Saban Brands in 2010, and ultimately to its sale to Hasbro in 2018, the franchise has seen many changes and has become an integral part of children's entertainment. Saban Brands played a pivotal role in ensuring the continuity and success of the franchise until it transitioned into Hasbro's hands.