First We Feast studio, which produces Hot Ones, has been sold – George Soros’ company is among the new owners

By: Trademagazin Date: 2024. 12. 13. 10:28

Buzzfeed has sold its First We Feast studio, which produces popular content such as Hot Ones, for $82.5 million (over 32 billion forints). According to Variety, the new investors include George Soros’s company, Soros Fund Management, as well as Chris Schonberger, the company’s founder, and Sean Evans, the host of Hot Ones.

New plans and expansion

Chris Schonberger, the founder of First We Feast, emphasized in a statement that the studio is not only working on new formats and platforms in the future, but also wants to expand. As part of this, they plan to launch live events and talent scouts, further expanding the brand’s awareness and reach.

Buzzfeed and Complex Networks relationship

First We Feast became owned by Buzzfeed in 2021, when the media company acquired Complex Networks, the studio’s previous owner. Hot Ones quickly became the channel’s biggest success story, attracting millions of fans worldwide with its unique interview format.

The success of Hot Ones

The concept of Hot Ones, in which host Sean Evans eats increasingly spicy chicken wings with his interviewees, made the show unique in the market. Guests have included world stars such as Gordon Ramsay, Billie Eilish, Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman and Scarlett Johansson.