In today’s franchise economy, storytelling doesn’t end at the screen. The most valuable IP moves seamlessly across formats — from series to spinoffs to merchandise and collectibles — creating a flywheel that deepens fandom, extends engagement and drives new revenue. As audiences look for more ways to connect with the worlds they love, the relationship between story and product is becoming more intentional — and more integrated.

Funko CEO Josh Simon joins Eric Robles, showrunner of Netflix’s upcoming Stranger Things: Tales from ’85, for a conversation about how story and consumer products can be developed in tandem, how collectibles shape — and are shaped by — narrative, and what it takes to build stories and worlds that live far beyond the screen.

Moderator: Elaine Low, Staff Writer, The Ankler

Speakers:

Josh Simon, CEO, Funko
Eric Robles, Showrunner, Netflix’s Stranger Things: Tales From ’85

Location: Media and Entertainment Theater