AwesomenessTV: The Evolution of a Digital Media Powerhouse
From its origins as a pioneering YouTube multi-channel network to its eventual integration into major Hollywood studios, AwesomenessTV has played a significant role in shaping digital content for younger audiences. Founded in July 2012 by Brian Robbins and Joe Davola, the company set out to capture the attention of millennials and Gen Z through high-energy, web-first programming.
The company's journey is marked by rapid expansion, high-stakes acquisitions, and a shifting landscape of digital media ownership. What began as an independent venture quickly became a focal point for major media conglomerates looking to bridge the gap between traditional television and the burgeoning world of online video.
Key Facts
- Founded: July 2012 by Brian Robbins and Joe Davola.
- Major Owners: DreamWorks Animation, Verizon Communications, and Viacom/Paramount.
- Core Focus: Producing long-form series and films for platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Paramount+.
- Legacy: Merged into Paramount Television Studios in October 2025.
- Notable Productions: To All the Boys I've Loved Before and PEN15.
The Early Years and the DreamWorks Era
Before the launch of AwesomenessTV, founder Brian Robbins was already a veteran of youth-oriented programming, having worked on series like All That and Smallville. In 2012, the company launched as a multi-channel network designed to target young demographics through various digital platforms.
The company's first major milestone occurred in May 2013, when DreamWorks Animation (DWA) announced its intent to acquire AwesomenessTV for $33 million. This partnership allowed the studio to develop YouTube channels centered around DWA's massive franchises, such as Shrek. During this period, the company diversified rapidly, launching AwesomenessInk (a publishing label), Awesomeness Music, and even a teen fashion line in partnership with Kohl's.
By 2016, the company's valuation reached a peak of $650 million following a significant investment from Verizon Communications. Verizon acquired a 24.5% stake for $159 million to bolster its streaming service, go90, with exclusive content from the studio.
Transition to Viacom and Paramount
The landscape shifted dramatically in 2018. Following the acquisition of DreamWorks Animation by NBCUniversal—which created competitive friction with Verizon—and the subsequent shutdown of the go90 service, AwesomenessTV faced a period of instability. In July 2018, Viacom acquired the company for approximately $50 million, a significant decrease from its previous valuation.
Under Viacom (and later Paramount Global), the studio rebranded simply as Awesomeness. It pivoted its focus toward high-quality, long-form content for subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) platforms. This era saw the studio produce critically acclaimed and commercially successful titles, including the Netflix hit To All the Boys I've Loved Before and the Emmy-nominated Hulu series PEN15.
In 2021, the studio's live-action operations were consolidated with the Nickelodeon Group, creating a unified production arm to streamline film and television development for younger viewers.
The Final Chapter: Merger into Paramount Television Studios
The era of Awesomeness as a standalone brand concluded in October 2025. As part of a broader corporate restructuring, the studio was merged into Paramount Television Studios, a production entity under the Paramount Skydance umbrella. This move integrated the studio's expertise in youth-oriented digital and long-form content directly into Paramount's core television production infrastructure.
Company Overview Summary
| Period | Parent Company | Key Focus/Event |
|---|---|---|
| 2012–2013 | Independent | Launch of multi-channel network |
| 2013–2018 | DreamWorks Animation | Expansion into music, publishing, and fashion |
| 2018–2021 | Viacom | Shift to SVOD content (Netflix, Hulu) |
| 2021–2025 | Nickelodeon Group / Paramount | Consolidation of live-action production |
| 2025–Present | Paramount Television Studios | Merged into Paramount Skydance |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded AwesomenessTV?
AwesomenessTV was founded in July 2012 by Brian Robbins and Joe Davola.
What was the highest valuation of the company?
In 2016, following an investment from Verizon Communications, the company was valued at approximately $650 million.
Which major streaming platforms has Awesomeness produced content for?
The studio has produced content for a variety of major platforms, including Netflix, Hulu, Paramount+, and YouTube Premium.
What happened to AwesomenessTV in 2025?
In October 2025, Awesomeness was merged into Paramount Television Studios, part of the Paramount Skydance production group.
What are some of the most famous Awesomeness productions?
Notable productions include the film franchise To All the Boys I've Loved Before and the Emmy-nominated series PEN15.