Fanatics ‍Studios: A New Force ​in Sports & ‍Entertainment Content

Fanatics,widely known for its licensed sports merchandise,is making ​a bold ⁢move into original content production. On January 18, 2026,‌ the company announced the launch of fanatics Studios, a partnership with ​OBB Media, a production company founded by ‍michael Strahan and Constance Schwartz-Morini‌ [1].⁣ This new studio will focus on⁢ feature films,⁣ documentaries, scripted and unscripted series, premium digital projects, and live event specials.

The launch of Fanatics Studios signals a broader trend of sports and entertainment companies investing in direct-to-consumer content production. This strategy allows ​them ⁢to‌ control their narratives, reach fans directly, and‍ generate new revenue streams beyond⁤ traditional broadcasting and licensing deals. OBB media brings significant production expertise‌ to the table, adding a crucial element to Fanatics’ ambition in the entertainment ⁣space.

WWE’s Role as ​a Launch Partner

WWE is ⁣positioned as a key launch partner in this endeavor,committing to multiple projects encompassing both ⁢unscripted⁢ and digital programming. This signifies a growing confidence in the power of original content to connect‌ with its⁣ passionate fan base.

This partnership builds on an already strong existing relationship. In 2022, Fanatics took over operations of WWE Shop [2], becoming the official e-commerce provider for WWE merchandise. Their collaboration ‍extends ‍beyond retail,‍ with ⁣plans to work together on the WWE World convention during WrestleMania 42 week ​in Las Vegas this April.

Existing and Upcoming Projects

Several projects are already⁣ underway as part of this collaboration. These include popular podcasts already on the WWE and Fanatics⁤ network:

• What Do You Wanna Talk About? ‍ hosted by Cody Rhodes
• What’s Yoru Story? featuring Stephanie McMahon
• Raw Recap with Sam Roberts and Megan Morant

Fanatics Studios will leverage these existing platforms to ⁤develop additional digital content featuring WWE talent. ⁢

YEE(A)T with The Usos: A Culinary and Travel Adventure

One of‌ the first new series announced is “YEE(A)T‌ with The Usos,” starring Jimmy and Jey Uso. This unscripted ​show will premiere on WWE’s ​YouTube channel ⁣and social media platforms. The⁣ series promises a unique blend of culinary exploration and travel, showcasing The ⁣Usos’ tag team dynamic as they ⁤experience barbecue ⁣culture and‍ interact ‌with fellow WWE Superstars and celebrity guests.This format taps into the growing ⁤popularity of food-centric travel shows and the individual star power of The Usos, currently one of WWE’s most popular teams.

the Broader Implications⁢ for WWE’s Content Strategy

This partnership with Fanatics Studios ⁤represents ⁢a significant shift⁢ in ⁣WWE’s content strategy. Previously, WWE relied heavily on its weekly television shows (“Raw,” “SmackDown,” “NXT”) and​ premium live events ⁤(pay-per-views) ⁢to deliver content to⁢ fans. This new venture ‍allows WWE to expand its reach, targeting audiences on ⁣platforms ‍like YouTube and​ perhaps streaming services with​ more‍ diverse and⁣ niche content.

The move also ​grants⁣ WWE greater control ‌over its content and brand narrative.⁢ By producing its own content through​ Fanatics Studios,WWE can bypass the constraints of traditional media outlets and directly ⁣connect with its fan ‍base in a more authentic and engaging way. This is crucial as the media landscape becomes increasingly fragmented and ⁢competitive.