Ex-Warner Bros TV Sales Chief Jeffrey Schlesinger Joins Kartoon Studios Board

EXCLUSIVE: Jeffrey Schlesinger, the former President of Warner Bros Worldwide Television Distribution, has joined the board of Kartoon Studios.

For many years, Schlesinger was Warner Bros’ top international TV seller, overseeing distribution of shows such as Friends, The Big Bang Theory and Game of Thrones, before exiting in 2021 and going on to set up his own consultancy, the cheekily named Former Bros. Media.

“Jeff Schlesinger is one of the most impactful executives in modern media history, and we’re honored to welcome him to the Kartoon Studios board, where I know his impact will be significant and immediate.” said Andy Heyward, Chairman & CEO of Kartoon Studios. “Jeff is like a five-sport varsity player, who is adept in distribution, finance, technology, content creation, and regulatory matters. 

“With experience scaling a major global distribution business, expertise in global IP monetization, and a proven track record in building high-margin revenue streams from premium content, we believe that Jeff is uniquely qualified to help accelerate Kartoon Studios’ growth strategy. His insights will be instrumental as we seek to expand our global footprint, grow recurring revenue, and unlock significant shareholder value.”

Besides overseeing major TV brands such as Two and a Half Men, he led on the international expansion of Warner Bros. Animation’s library of more than 10,000 episodes from brands such as Looney Tunes, Hanna-Barbera, Merrie Melodies, Scooby-Doo, The Flintstones and Justice League. He also oversaw the TV distribution of the Batman, Harry Potter, and The Lord of the Rings franchises.