What's Happening?
Brad Miska, co-founder of the horror website Bloody Disgusting, has acquired Dread Central, a prominent horror media outlet. Miska, along with Heather and Peter Luttrell, has launched Be Afraid Media, an independent horror media company, marking the acquisition as its official launch. Dread Central, founded in 2006, has been a significant voice in horror film, television, and culture. Despite its influence, the site has faced financial challenges, leading to its purchase by Epic Pictures in 2017. Be Afraid Media plans to expand Dread Central's reach while maintaining its integrity and independence. The acquisition includes DreadTV, a leading FAST horror channel, and a multi-year streaming distribution agreement with Epic. Epic CEO Patrick Ewald
will join Be Afraid Media's Board of Directors. Dread Releasing and DreadXP will continue as Epic businesses, separate from the Dread Central transaction.
Why It's Important?
The acquisition of Dread Central by Brad Miska and Be Afraid Media signifies a strategic move to consolidate and expand influence within the horror media landscape. This development is crucial for the horror genre, as it promises to enhance content accessibility and audience engagement. By leveraging Miska's experience and the resources of Be Afraid Media, Dread Central is poised to strengthen its position in the competitive digital media market. The move also highlights the growing importance of niche media outlets in catering to specific audience interests, potentially setting a precedent for similar acquisitions in other genres. The involvement of Epic Pictures ensures continued collaboration and resource sharing, which could lead to innovative content offerings and expanded distribution channels.
What's Next?
Be Afraid Media plans to focus on revitalizing Dread Central's FAST channel and building a robust podcast network. The company aims to expand across the horror ecosystem, including live events, merchandise, production, and distribution. This strategic expansion is expected to increase the brand's footprint and audience reach. The leadership team, praised for their understanding of the genre and respect for the audience, is well-positioned to guide Dread Central into its next era. The acquisition could lead to new partnerships and collaborations within the horror industry, potentially influencing content creation and distribution strategies.
