Wheelhouse DNA, the digital-first and influencer arm of media, marketing and investment company Wheelhouse, and Frederator Studios, a subsidiary of Genius Brands International Inc., have partnered with comedian Adam W. (Waheed), on the development and production of a new adult animated series. This deal marks the first partnership between Frederator and Wheelhouse DNA, and the debut of Adam W. writing and starring in a series.
Set in ancient Egypt where the gods are real, aliens built the pyramids and the afterlife exists, the 10-episode series follows a lovable royal buffoon (Waheed) who finds himself suddenly thrust onto the throne.
“This project delves into the mysteries of one of the world’s most captivating cultures and brings it to life in a modern way that is both enlightening and entertaining,” says Wheelhouse DNA Managing Director Fanny Baudry. “We’re excited to combine our production expertise with Adam W’s creative vision and Frederator’s premium animation capabilities to take viewers back in time to explore the fascinating world of ancient Egypt.”
Frederator is an independent producer of animation for streaming services, linear television and online video platforms, and has produced 19 series and more than 250 short films for and with partners including Netflix, Amazon, Google, Nickelodeon, Nick Jr., Sony Pictures Animation and Cartoon Network — such as Adventure Time, Castlevania and Bee and PuppyCat.
“Wheelhouse DNA has proven to be one of the most innovative and successful studios with exceptional taste in content,” said Isabel Schultz, Director of Development at Frederator. “We are grateful and excited to partner with them to bring our amazing creator Adam W.’s voice to life in this hilarious adult animation series.”
Waheed has accumulated over 11.5 billion views in 2022 alone and is on track to double that this year. He was just named one of The 20 Most Influential Creators by Rolling Stone, and earned a spot on the Forbes Top Creator List in 2022.
Now, he is pivoting his online success to the entertainment industry, partnering with Spencer Strasmore (Ballers, Shooter) to co-create this animated series and develop a slate of origina content across digital, TV and feature film. Previously, Strasmore was a producer and development executive for Mark Wahlberg and Stephen Levinson’s production company.
“I’m thrilled to partner with Frederator and Wheelhouse DNA on this original animated series,” said Waheed. “I like to push the boundaries with my content and animation is the perfect fit as there is no limit to how big I can go.”
