End of an Era: Rooster Teeth, Animation & Gaming Studio, Announces Closure

It’s a sad day for fans of Rooster Teeth, the beloved animation, comedy, and gaming studio owned by Warner Bros. Discovery. In a heartfelt announcement, Rooster Teeth’s general manager, Jordan Levin, shared the difficult news of the studio’s closure.

Following Warner Bros. Discovery’s ownership of Rooster Teeth after acquiring TimeWarner from AT&T, the company continued to invest in its content and community. However, despite these efforts, Rooster Teeth is closing its doors due to the challenges facing digital media, including shifts in consumer behavior and monetization strategies.

As part of the closure, the Roost Podcast Network, home to over 80 podcasts, will continue operating as Warner Bros. Discovery seeks outside interest for its acquisition. The fate of popular IPs like Red vs Blue, RWBY, and Gen: LOCK is still being discussed.

Founded in 2003 in Austin, Texas, Rooster Teeth initially gained fame with its web series Red vs. Blue, based on the Halo video game. Over the years, it expanded to include podcasts, anime series like RWBY, and streaming shows like Gen: LOCK, featuring Michael B. Jordan. While the studio previously employed around 150 staff, the exact number affected by the closure remains uncertain due to potential sales and contractor positions.

Levin reflected on the closure, acknowledging the broader challenges faced by the industry, including shifts in monetization, platform algorithms, advertising hurdles, and changes in patronage. Despite Rooster Teeth’s closure marking the end of an era, it underscores the evolving landscape of digital media and its impact on businesses in the industry.