Italian animation studio Graphilm Entertainment has regained its independence following the liquidation of its previous owner, French animation giant Cyber Group Studios.
Cyber Group was liquidated last year after entering administration following financial struggles, with many of its assets sold off to repay creditors.
A number of these assets are now back in the hands of their original owners, including Graphilm Entertainment, which was acquired by Cyber Group in 2022 as the French company expanded following the streaming boom.
Graphilm has issued a statement saying it has regained “100% ownership” and “full control” of the company, including the animated properties McFire Family (52×11′) and Nefertine on the Nile (52×11′).
Both titles are currently in production in collaboration with Rai Kids in Italy, with the second season of Nefertine on the Nile to be distributed by Rai Com.
“A new chapter begins, built on our tradition and looking to the future,” the company said.
It comes after UK animation company A Productions, which was also acquired by Cyber Group in 2022, returned to 100% independent ownership.
Katherine McQueen and Mark Taylor reacquired the majority stake in Bristol-based A Productions that was previously held by Cyber Group last year.
Meanwhile, according to French reports, former Disney exec Pierre Sissmann, who co-founded Cyber Group in 2005, recently acquired the majority of the company’s catalogue of IP alongside entrepreneur Gregoire Parcollet, including shows such as Gigantosaurus.