A Major Media Merger in Canada: Blue Ant Takes Over Thunderbird

In a significant move, Blue Ant Media is acquiring Thunderbird Entertainment for a substantial sum of C$89M. This deal includes both cash and shares, making it a lucrative offer for Thunderbird, known for producing popular shows like:

• "Kim‘s Convenience"
• "Highway Thru Hell"
• "Reginald the Vampire"

The acquisition values Thunderbird‘s shares at C$1.77, a 28% increase from the previous trading day.

Anticipated Benefits and Strategic Moves

Blue Ant anticipates that this takeover will lead to cost savings of C$7M. The deal is part of a busy year for Blue Ant, which recently completed a reverse takeover of Boat Rocker Media and listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. Additionally, they secured a multi-million dollar deal for documentary streamer MagellanTV in October.

Michael MacMillan, Blue Ant‘s founder and CEO, expressed optimism about the acquisition. He believes it will:

• Enhance Blue Ant’s studio business
• Improve earnings
• Increase cash flow

The combined strengths of both companies will allow for better content development, packaging, and monetization across various platforms. This move is seen as a continuation of the momentum gained from the reverse takeover earlier this year.

Post-Acquisition Structure and Leadership

Once the deal is finalized, Blue Ant and Thunderbird shareholders will own approximately 79% and 21% of the new entity, respectively. Thunderbird‘s board has unanimously approved the deal, with only CEO and Chair Jinnifer Twiner McCarron abstaining.

• Twiner McCarron will join Blue Ant to oversee the combined kids, young adult, and animation business within Blue Ant Studios.
• One Thunderbird director will join the Blue Ant board.

Future Prospects and Financial Strength

Twiner McCarron highlighted the benefits of this merger, stating that it will provide Thunderbird with greater opportunities for:

• Commissioning
• Global distribution
• IP ownership

She anticipates joining Blue Ant from a position of financial strength in fiscal 2026. Currently, 76% of Thunderbird‘s revenue is secured through approved and ongoing productions. The company expects:

• Mid- to high-single-digit revenue growth
• An increase in Adjusted EBITDA, with margins similar to the previous year.