Universal Studios, also known as Universal Pictures, is a significant player in the global entertainment industry. As a subsidiary of NBCUniversal, itself a division of Comcast, Universal Studios owns a multitude of entertainment ventures including film production and distribution, theme parks, television production, music production and distribution, retail chains, and more.
Universal Studios, a subsidiary of NBCUniversal, owns a vast array of entertainment ventures. This includes film production and distribution companies like Universal Pictures, several theme parks worldwide, television production franchises, broadcast and cable networks through NBCUniversal, the streaming service Peacock, and retail chains like Spencer Gifts. They also hold a stake in Loews Cineplex Entertainment.
Film Production and Distribution
Universal Pictures, one of Hollywood’s “Big Six” film studios, has produced numerous successful films. These include iconic classics such as Jaws, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, and Jurassic Park, as well as recent box-office hits like Despicable Me 2, Furious 7, and Jurassic World. Universal Studios is also home to several major film franchises, including Jurassic Park/World, Fast and the Furious, Jason Bourne, Back to the Future, Universal Classic Monsters (e.g., The Mummy, Invisible Man), The Purge, Jaws, Fifty Shades, and Despicable Me/Minions.
Theme Parks
Universal Studios operates several theme parks worldwide, including Universal Studios Florida, Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Japan, Universal Studios Singapore, and the recently opened Universal Beijing Resort in China. These theme parks feature numerous rides, attractions, and live shows primarily themed around movies, television, and other aspects of the entertainment industry.
Television Production
Universal Studios has a significant presence in television production. Some of the well-known TV franchises include The A-Team, Battlestar Galactica, Chicago (franchise), Dragnet (franchise), Hannibal Lecter (franchise), Bates Motel (TV series), Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Community (TV series), and Downton Abbey. These franchises have been successful in both box office and television ratings, making Universal Studios a major player in the entertainment industry.
Broadcast and Cable Networks
Universal Studios, as a part of NBCUniversal, owns several broadcast and cable networks. Some of the notable cable networks owned by Universal Studios through NBCUniversal include Syfy, USA Network, Bravo, E!, Oxygen, and Universal Kids. In addition to these cable networks, NBCUniversal also owns the broadcast network NBC and its associated television stations, as well as Telemundo and Universo, which cater to Spanish-speaking audiences.
Streaming Platforms and Digital Services
NBCUniversal owns the streaming service Peacock, which has exclusive streaming rights to Universal films after their theatrical releases. In addition, Universal has a licensing deal with Amazon, allowing Prime Video to stream live-action Universal films after their earlier pay-one premieres on Peacock.
Retail and Other Ventures
In addition to its entertainment ventures, Universal Studios operates the Spencer Gifts retail chain, which runs more than 500 stores across the country. It also holds a 25-percent stake in Loews Cineplex Entertainment, which operates about 450 movie theaters.
Conclusion
Universal Studios has evolved significantly from its roots as a film studio founded by Carl Laemmle in 1912. Today, it is a global media corporation and one of the oldest and most famous Hollywood film studios still in use. Its portfolio extends beyond film production to include theme parks, television production, music production, retail chains, and more, making it a major player in the global entertainment industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “Big Six” in Hollywood?
The “Big Six” refers to the six major film studios that dominate the film industry in Hollywood. These include Universal Pictures, Warner Bros., Paramount Pictures, 20th Century Fox, Columbia Pictures, and Walt Disney Studios.
Who founded Universal Studios?
Universal Studios was founded by Carl Laemmle, a German-born film producer, in 1912.
What is the first movie produced by Universal Studios?
The first movie produced by Universal Studios was “Traffic in Souls”, a silent film released in 1913 that dealt with the issue of white slavery.
What is NBCUniversal?
NBCUniversal is a multinational media conglomerate that is a subsidiary of Comcast. It owns and operates a large portfolio of news and entertainment television networks, a premier motion picture company, significant television production operations, and a suite of leading Internet-based businesses.
What is Peacock?
Peacock is a streaming service owned by NBCUniversal. It offers a variety of content from NBCUniversal’s various networks and studios, as well as original programming.
What is Spencer Gifts?
Spencer Gifts LLC, doing business as Spencer’s, is a North American mall retailer that offers novelty and gag gifts, and is known for its collection of rock and roll clothing, band merchandise, and adult products.
