Disney’s Empire Expands- The Unveiling of Disney’s Ownership Over the Iconic Power Rangers Franchise
Does Disney own Power Rangers? This question has intrigued fans and critics alike for years. With the recent merger of Disney and 21st Century Fox, the answer has become even more intriguing. Let’s delve into the history and current status of this beloved television franchise.
The Power Rangers franchise originated in Japan in 1993 as “Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers.” The show was created by Haim Saban and later brought to the United States by Saban Entertainment. Over the years, the show has seen numerous iterations, with various characters and storylines. Despite its popularity, the ownership of the franchise has been a topic of debate.
Before the merger, the Power Rangers franchise was owned by Saban Entertainment. Disney acquired a significant stake in the company in 2009, which included the rights to Power Rangers. However, the full ownership of the franchise was not transferred to Disney until the merger with 21st Century Fox in 2019.
The merger brought together a vast array of entertainment properties, including Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars, under the Disney umbrella. With this new acquisition, Disney now owns the rights to Power Rangers, along with other Fox properties such as X-Men and Fantastic Four.
Disney’s ownership of Power Rangers has led to several changes in the franchise. The latest iteration, “Power Rangers: Zeo,” was released in 2019, featuring a new cast and updated graphics. The show’s theme song and overall look have also been reimagined to align with Disney’s branding.
One of the most significant changes under Disney’s ownership has been the integration of Power Rangers into the larger Marvel Universe. The crossover event, “Power Rangers: Battle for the Multi-Verse,” featured characters from both franchises, blending their storylines and characters. This crossover has been met with mixed reactions from fans, with some praising the creativity and others expressing concerns about the direction of the franchise.
Despite the changes, the core essence of Power Rangers remains the same: a group of teenagers with special powers who fight evil forces to protect the world. Disney’s ownership has provided the opportunity to expand the franchise and reach new audiences, both through television and other media.
In conclusion, yes, Disney does own Power Rangers. The merger with 21st Century Fox has brought the beloved franchise under the Disney umbrella, leading to several changes and opportunities for growth. While some fans may be concerned about the direction of the franchise, it remains a testament to the enduring appeal of Power Rangers and its ability to adapt to new ownership and audiences.
