Hasbro CEO Goldner Dies at 58
Tuesday, October 12, 2021
Hasbro CEO Brian Goldner has passed away.
Goldner’s death comes just two days after Hasbro announced he was taking a medical leave of absence from his role as CEO.
Rich Stoddart, most recently the lead independent director of Hasbro’s board, was appointed as interim CEO when Goldner took medical leave.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST“Since joining the company more than two decades ago, Brian has been the heart and soul of Hasbro,” Stoddart said in a statement. “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.”
About Goldner at Hasbro
Hasbro issued the following statement on Tuesday.
"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.
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.”
In 2019, Hasbro -- under Goldner -- announced the purchase of United Kingdon based-Entertainment One Ltd. (eOne) in a blockbuster deal.
The all-cash transaction valued at approximately £3.3 billion -- or $4 billion -- was a gamechanger in the entertainment and toy industry. eOne owned a cadre of brands including Peppa Pig.
