In a significant turn of events for the French animation industry, Cyber Group Studios, renowned for its series Gigantosaurus, is set to be liquidated after the Paris Commercial Court’s decision to sell off its assets to settle outstanding debts. This ruling comes despite multiple takeover bids aimed at preserving the company’s operations.
The court’s announcement follows a period of judicial recovery that Cyber Group had been undergoing since November. During this time, the company had until April 30, 2025, to either restore its financial health or face complete liquidation. Unfortunately, in a surprising move, the court opted to proceed with asset liquidation instead of considering the four active takeover offers on the table, which included proposals from Hildegarde, Solent Productions, Newen Studios, and a partnership comprising United Smile, Toonz Media Group, and Atlas Global.
These bids were largely focused on acquiring the Gigantosaurus IP and an animated series based on the popular video game, Final Fantasy IX.
Cyber Group Studios (formerly known as Cyber Group Animation till 2009) was founded in 2005 by Pierre Sissmann, Dominique Bourse, Billy “Frédéric” Richard, Olivier Lelardoux, and Cécilia Bosselin. The studio produced a diverse array of 3D and 2D animated TV shows, games, and movies, such as Gigantosaurus, 50/50 Heroes, Droners, Taffy and Press Start.
Earlier in November, Cyber Group filed a legal notice indicating that it had ceased payment towards its debts as of October 22, prompting creditors to file claims to court representatives overseeing the case. This development reflects a grim reality for the company, which reported a significant decline in its equity below 50% of its share capital.
While Dominique Bourse is unable to comment publicly due to the ongoing judicial recovery proceedings, former SVP of Marketing and Licensing at Cyber Group Christine Blériot commented the decision on Linkedin as an “Incompréhensible gâchis”, an incomprehensible waste.
