The Mystery Behind Disney’s Power Rangers: Ownership and Series Updates
It seems there has been much confusion about the status of the iconic Power Rangers franchise, particularly regarding the ownership and continuation of the series. Disney, who once owned the rights, has now released the franchise back into the hands of Saban and Hasbro, sparking numerous questions and discussions. This article aims to clarify the current situation and discuss the latest developments in the franchise.
Ownership and Sale History of Power Rangers
The Power Rangers franchise has been a cornerstone of children's and pop culture since its debut in 1993. The journey of this beloved series has been marked by several ownership changes. Let's dive into the history:
From Saban to Disney
Initially, the series was created by Polygram Entertainment and then Saban Entertainment. In 2007, Disney acquired Saban Entertainment, and with it, the rights to the Power Rangers series. However, just a few years later, in 2010, Disney decided to sell the rights back to Saban, marking the first time another company held the rights since the series' inception.
Saban and Hasbro: A New Era
In 2018, after eight more years of Saban owning the franchise, it was sold to Hasbro. This transaction further added to the confusion and speculation surrounding the franchise's future.
Current Status and Active Series
Despite the uncertainties in ownership, the Power Rangers franchise has not been left without new content. Netflix recently launched a new series called Cosmic Fury, which has restarted the popular franchise. This series features some familiar faces and exciting new storylines.
David Yost’s Return
A notable highlight of the new series is the return of David Yost, better known as the Blue Ranger. He last appeared in the 30th anniversary special Once and Always, where he made a significant comeback after being absent for many years during the Zeo season.
Future and Ratings
While the ratings of Power Rangers series under Disney's ownership are not widely available, the ongoing popularity and the new series on Netflix suggest that the franchise is quite resilient. The success of reboot series like Cosmic Fury and the continued interest in reuniting former cast members indicate a strong demand for the franchise.
Conclusion: Clarity on Franchise Updates
As we navigate the complex timeline of Power Rangers ownership, it's clear that the franchise remains a vibrant and dynamic entity. The return of cast members and the ongoing success of new series show that the Power Rangers continue to captivate audiences, regardless of who owns the rights.
The recent activity around the franchise, especially with the release of Cosmic Fury, demonstrates that the Power Rangers are not only a beloved series but also a versatile one capable of evolving and adapting to changing times.
So, to those who were worried that the franchise faced cancellation or stagnation, rest assured that Power Rangers is here to stay. It's now up to the new owners to build on the legacy and continue to create exciting and engaging stories for fans around the world.