ViacomCBS taps Marvel exec Grant Gish to head adult animation

ViacomCBS Entertainment and Youth Group has appointed former Marvel Studios and Fox Animation exec Grant Gish as SVP of its new adult animation unit.

Joining on 31 August, Gish will oversee an expanding animation slate across linear and streaming, which includes shows like South Park and revived versions of Beavis & Butt-Head, Clone High and the recently announced reimagining of The Ren & Stimpy Show.

Gish joins ViacomCBS from Marvel Studios, where he launched the adult comedy and animation group within the former Marvel Television division. He also spearheaded Marvel’s foray into half-hour comedy and adult animation with upcoming Hulu series M.O.D.O.K. and Hit-Monkey.

During his time at Fox Animation, Gish helped to develop Bob’s Burgers and oversaw American Dad.

Gish commented: “I grew up on MTV’s Animation Studios content where I’d run home from school to watch Beavis & Butt-Head, eating pretzels on my couch.

“With access to such a vast library of IP that will enable us to break through the clutter, coupled with the opportunity to create a fresh slate, I couldn’t be more excited to join the E&Y Group.”

Nina L. Diaz, president of content and chief creative officer for ViacomCBS Entertainment & Youth Group, praised Gish’s “incredible instincts and a supercharged passion for animation,” while Chris McCarthy, president of ViacomCBS Entertainment & Youth Group, described adult animation as “pandemic-proof” explaining that this was why “we are reimagining many of our beloved iconic IPs, unlocking incredible value.”