‘Universal Basic Guys’ Creators Adam, Craig Malamut Ink Sony TV Deal

Adam and Craig Malamut have signed an overall deal with Sony Pictures Television, Variety has learned exclusively.

The brothers are currently at work on the animated comedy series “Universal Basic Guys,” which was ordered to series at Fox in November 2022. Sony is co-producing the series with Fox Entertainment, while Bento Box is providing the animation. The Malamuts created the series and serve as executive producers.

“Sony has been an incredible partner, and we’re thrilled to officially join the family,” said Adam and Craig Malamut. “From the beginning, they’ve supported our vision and encouraged us to stay true to our creative voice. We’re so grateful for the opportunity to join such a legendary studio and look forward to continuing our partnership.”

Under their new deal, the Malamuts will focus on developing animated series across broadcast, cable, and streaming.

The Malamuts are self-taught animators, writers, directors, editors, composers, and voice actors. Their first animated show was “Sports Friends,” which aired on Yahoo Screen. They then landed a deal at Bleacher Report, where they created the animated comedy “Game of Zones.” The show ran for seven seasons and was nominated for multiple Sports Emmy Awards. During their time at Bleacher Report, they were also behind shows like “Champions,” “Gridiron Heights,” and several others.

“As a massive fan of Adam and Craig’s work on ‘Game of Zones,’ I knew we had to work together on their next project,” said Frank Ochoa, vice president of adult animation for Sony Pictures Television. “Their creativity, passion, and talent are unmatched in the animation space, and they have put all of that into ‘Universal Basic Guys.’ We are so excited to have The Malamuts call Sony home as we continue building on our animated comedy slate.”

“Universal Basic Guys” will premiere at a special market screening during the Annecy International Animation Film Festival on June 12. The official description of the series states that it focuses on brothers Mark and Hank Hoagies “who lose their jobs to automation and are given $3000 a month in a new basic income program. Now, they’re using their free time and free money to find purpose in a world where they’re no longer needed.”

The Malamuts are repped by CAA and Yorn Levine Barnes.