In a surprising turn of events, the beloved American gaming, comedy, and entertainment company, Rooster Teeth Productions, has announced its closure just three weeks shy of its 21st anniversary.
With a rich history that began in 2003, Rooster Teeth became a household name, leaving an indelible mark on the gaming and entertainment landscape. Let’s take a look at the journey, challenges, and the impact Rooster Teeth has had on the industry.
Founded in 2003 and later acquired by Fullscreen in 2014, Rooster Teeth thrived as a creative hub for gaming, comedy, and entertainment enthusiasts. However, the company faced challenges in 2019 when Fullscreen underwent cost-cutting measures, resulting in layoffs affecting around 13% of its workforce. Despite being part of the Warner Bros. Discovery portfolio since April 2022, Rooster Teeth found itself in a period of uncertainty as its parent company openly sought potential buyers over the past two years.
The recent announcement of Rooster Teeth’s closure, as confirmed by General Manager Jordan Levin, marks the end of a significant chapter. Levin took over the reins in 2019, succeeding CEO Matt Hullum in the aftermath of the layoffs. While the shutdown won’t happen overnight, the process is expected to unfold over the next several weeks to months. Levin emphasized that The Roost podcast will continue operating for the time being, providing a glimpse of continuity amidst the changes.
Levin attributes the closure to broader industry trends, citing ongoing layoffs and “advertising challenges” as contributing factors. Approximately 150 employees, along with freelance contractors and content creators associated with Rooster Teeth, will be affected by this decision. The closure also brings an unintentional alignment with the final season of the long-running Halo web series Red vs. Blue, adding a poignant note to this unexpected turn of events.
Rooster Teeth’s legacy extends beyond its content creation, with a notable impact on gaming culture and the industry itself. Over the years, the company ventured into game development, creating three games and publishing seven others. Memorable experiences like Bendy and the Ink Machine bear witness to Rooster Teeth’s influence on the gaming landscape, making its closure a significant loss for both fans and the industry.
As the closure unfolds, the fate of the remaining branch of Rooster Teeth, described as a “growing asset,” remains uncertain. Warner Bros. Discovery continues to explore potential buyers for the podcast, leaving fans and industry observers curious about the company’s final chapter.
Rooster Teeth’s closure signifies the end of an era for a company that has been a cornerstone of gaming, comedy, and entertainment for over two decades. As the industry grapples with evolving trends and challenges, the impact of Rooster Teeth’s contributions will be remembered fondly by fans and industry peers alike. As we bid farewell to this influential entity, we recognize the indomitable spirit that defined Rooster Teeth and the lasting legacy it leaves behind in the hearts of its dedicated community.