Maker Studios closes NewFronts with new content, Maker.TV, LABS@MAKER, Maker Offers

Maker Studios was quick to embrace its new Disney relationship, which was described as a “natural fit” by Chief Content Officer Erin McPherson at its NewFront event in the Liberty Theatre yesterday. The presentation showcased all of the MCN’s biggest hit brands such as the newest Epic Rap Battles of History video; even CEO Ynon Kreiz took part in a bad lip reading treatment. “YouTube did a great job at capitalizing, but there are challenges: more than ever, content creators need to rise above the noise to reach and engage viewers that have infinite choice, and that’s where we come in,” Kreiz said. “What makes us different from our competitors is our scale – Vice or Awesomeness don’t have our numbers,” McPherson told Cynopsis. “Also, our content separates us; we’re like the United Artists of YouTube. The original founders of Maker didn’t want to get rich – they wanted to be heard. The third thing that makes us different is Maker.tv. It’s a great brand build.”

Other highlights from the event included:

The aforementioned video platform Maker.TV, its new ad product Maker Offers and new programming model LABS@MAKER. Programming included Comedy Central’s Keegan-Michael Kay and Jordan Peele -known for their sketch show Key and Peele – who will produce a new comedy series with Maker called Ithamar Has Nothing To Say. The six-ep show will feature comedian Ithamar Enriquez (The Office) encountering American culture while not saying a word. Morgan Spurlock (Super Size Me) presented his new channel, Smartish, which will source new comedy talent from the web, and new series like ShayLife and How To Win at Life.

James Franco and Vince Jolivette’s Rabit Bandini Productions will help launch the new programming insights and tool for creators called LABS@MAKER. The product will help creators produce content as well as receive real time feedback from its audiences. Maker.TV is the new video destination that will curate Maker’s content and network partners. Maker Offers will scale Maker’s 50,000 creators and help advertisers reach specific audiences. And a closing performance from will.i.am and up-and-comer Cody Wise had the crowd rocking.

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