Hasbro Announces the Passing of Beloved Leader and Longtime Chairman & CEO Brian D. Goldner

Rhea-AI Summary

Hasbro announces the passing of Brian D. Goldner, the beloved Chairman and CEO, who led the company for over two decades. Under his visionary leadership, Hasbro evolved into a global play and entertainment powerhouse, expanding beyond toys into television and digital gaming. His strategic initiatives included the notable acquisition of eOne in 2019, enhancing Hasbro's storytelling capabilities. Rich Stoddart, Interim CEO, and Edward M. Philip, Lead Independent Director, remembered Goldner for his remarkable influence and leadership. Hasbro pledges continued commitment to creating enriching experiences for families worldwide.

Positive

• Goldner's leadership transformed Hasbro into a global play and entertainment leader.
• Successful acquisition of eOne in 2019 expanded Hasbro's storytelling reach.
• Hasbro is recognized for its ethical practices and corporate social responsibility.

Negative

• The passing of CEO Brian D. Goldner may lead to uncertainties in leadership.
• Challenges in maintaining company vision without Goldner's guidance.

Visionary CEO Transformed Hasbro into a Global Play & Entertainment Leader

PAWTUCKET, R.I.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- It is with deep and profound sadness that Hasbro announces the passing of beloved leader and longtime Chairman and CEO Brian D. Goldner.

Brian D. Goldner (Photo: Business Wire)

Rich Stoddart, Interim CEO, said “Since joining the Company more than two decades ago, Brian has been the heart and soul of Hasbro. As a charismatic and passionate leader in both the play and entertainment industries, Brian’s work brought joy and laughter to children and families around the world. His visionary leadership, kindness, and generosity made him beloved by the Hasbro community and everyone he touched. On behalf of the Hasbro family, we extend our deepest, heartfelt condolences to his wife, daughter, and entire family.”

Mr. Goldner, 58, joined Hasbro in 2000 and was quickly recognized as a visionary in the industry. He was appointed CEO in 2008 and became Chairman of the Board in 2015. He was instrumental in transforming the Company into a global play and entertainment leader, architecting a strategic Brand Blueprint to create the world’s best play and storytelling experiences. Through his tireless work ethic and unwavering focus, he expanded the Company beyond toys and games into television, movies, digital gaming and beyond, to ensure Hasbro’s iconic brands reached every consumer. The culmination of his pioneering strategy was the 2019 acquisition of independent entertainment studio eOne. Mr. Goldner served on the Board of Directors of ViacomCBS and was the Chair of the Compensation Committee. Mr. Goldner and his wife Barbara were passionate advocates for improving systems of care for vulnerable members of society.

Edward M. Philip, Lead Independent Director of Hasbro’s Board of Directors, said “Brian’s passing is a tremendous loss for Hasbro and the world. Brian was universally admired and respected in the industry, and throughout his over twenty years at Hasbro, his inspiring leadership and exuberance left an indelible mark on everything and everyone he touched. A mentor and friend to so many, his passion and creativity took Hasbro to new heights. Our love and thoughts are with his wife, daughter, and family during this extraordinarily sad time.”

About Hasbro

Hasbro (NASDAQ: HAS) is a global play and entertainment company committed to Creating the World's Best Play and Entertainment Experiences. From toys, games and consumer products to television, movies, digital gaming, live action, music, and virtual reality experiences, Hasbro connects to global audiences by bringing to life great innovations, stories and brands across established and inventive platforms. Hasbro’s iconic brands include NERF, MAGIC: THE GATHERING, MY LITTLE PONY, TRANSFORMERS, PLAY-DOH, MONOPOLY, BABY ALIVE, POWER RANGERS, PEPPA PIG and PJ MASKS, as well as premier partner brands. Through its global entertainment studio, eOne, Hasbro is building its brands globally through great storytelling and content on all screens. Hasbro is committed to making the world a better place for all children and all families through corporate social responsibility and philanthropy. Hasbro ranked among the 2020 100 Best Corporate Citizens by 3BL Media, has been named one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies® by Ethisphere Institute for the past nine years, and one of America’s Most JUST Companies by Forbes and JUST Capital for the past four years. We routinely share important business and brand updates on our Investor Relations website, Newsroom and social channels (@Hasbro on Twitter and Instagram, and @HasbroOfficial on Facebook.)

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View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211012006149/en/

Investors: Debbie Hancock | Hasbro, Inc. | (401) 727-5401 | debbie.hancock@hasbro.com

Media: Carrie Ratner | Hasbro, Inc. | (401) 556-2720 | carrie.ratner@hasbro.com

Source: Hasbro

FAQ

What impact did Brian D. Goldner have on Hasbro's stock symbol HAS?

Brian D. Goldner's leadership significantly elevated Hasbro as a global play and entertainment leader, potentially influencing investor confidence and the stock's performance.

What changes might occur at Hasbro following Goldner's passing on the stock HAS?

Hasbro may experience leadership uncertainties and strategic shifts as the company adjusts to a new interim CEO after Goldner's passing.

What initiatives did Brian D. Goldner implement that affected Hasbro (HAS)?

Goldner spearheaded the acquisition of eOne and expanded Hasbro's presence in entertainment sectors, impacting the company's growth and market position.

How did Hasbro's brand strategy evolve under Brian D. Goldner's leadership (HAS)?

Goldner's strategic Brand Blueprint diversified Hasbro's portfolio from toys to encompassing television and digital content, enhancing brand visibility.