Brad Winderbaum given oversight of Marvel TV, animation, comics & franchise

The head of Marvel Television and Marvel Animation is gaining an expanded remit that also includes overseeing the creative direction of Marvel’s publishing and franchise efforts. Winderbaum has been leading Marvel Animation as it grew Marvel’s presence with kids through popular preschool shows like Spidey and His Amazing Friends and the upcoming Avengers: Mightiest Friends, both for Disney Jr. Winderbaum joined Marvel during production of its first theatrical release, Iron Man. Marvel’s longtime head of comics & franchise, Dan Buckley, is departing the company, but he’s staying on through mid-2027 to support the transition. Marvel has recruited former Disney Music Group GM David Abdo to serve as GM of comics & franchise, reporting to Winderbaum.

Universal Destinations & Experiences names global franchise strategy officer 

Donna Miras Bates, an NBCUniversal vet, will lead global franchise strategy across UDX’s IPs, with a focus on driving theme park, CP and experiential growth. She’s tasked with shaping long-term roadmaps and partnerships for the division’s theme parks and consumer products, and will report to Universal Products & Experiences president Vince Klaseus. Bates has been with UDX for nearly 30 years in various marketing and partnership roles, most recently as SVP of marketing communications and content development for Universal Orlando Resort. UDX comprises hotels and resorts, merch and LBE that highlight franchises from DreamWorks Animation, Illumination and Universal Pictures.

Pictured left to right, Brad Winderbaum, David Abdo and Dan Buckley. Image courtesy of Marvel.