Mattel merges film and TV divisions, forms Studios arm under Robbie Brenner

Toymaking giant Mattel is combining its film and television units under a newly formed Mattel Studios banner, led by Robbie Brenner and with three newly hired executives in senior posts.

Robbie Brenner

With the creation of the new entity, Brenner, who was previously president of Mattel Films, has been promoted to president and chief content officer of Mattel Studios.

Jennifer Breslow has been named head of television at Mattel Studios, with Darian Lanzetta and Tom McNulty serving as senior executives.

All three will report to Brenner, who has been with Mattel since 2018. She will report to Mattel chairman and CEO Ynon Kreiz.

In their new roles, Breslow will be charged with overseeing the strategic direction of Mattel’s television slate, content creation and distribution, while Lanzetta and McNulty will spearhead the development and production of films based on Mattel’s IP. They will also be responsible for expanding Mattel’s film slate and growing its franchises both creatively and commercially.

Breslow was most recently the executive VP of television and digital media at Legendary Entertainment, where she oversaw development on scripted series. Before that, she oversaw international originals for Netflix across several regions.

Lanzetta previously spent 12 years with Creative Artists Agency, working most recently as a motion picture literary agent. While at the talent agency, she worked with Mattel on its film slate, including deals and talent attachments for movies including Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, Bob the Builder, Monster High, Barney and Masters of the Universe.

McNulty was most recently principal at MC Squared Media, developing projects with talent such as Ozark co-creator Bill Dubuque, Bradley Cooper, Emma Stone, Nate Bargatze, Steve Carell and Miles Teller.

“Robbie’s relationships, track record and expertise in leading the creative process for brand-led content will strengthen Mattel’s position as a trusted partner for the world’s top creative talent across film and television,” said Kreiz.