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Neon Sells Majority Stake to Department M and Moves to Launch Neon TV

The investment provides growth capital to fund Neon’s push into production, aiming to scale the distributor into a mini‑studio that makes and sells film and television.

Overview

  • The companies confirmed the transaction closed on Friday, July 10, 2026, with Department M acquiring a reported majority stake and providing capital to expand Neon’s operations and launch Neon TV.
  • Tom Quinn will remain Neon’s chief executive, Department M partner Michael Schaefer will become Neon’s chief content officer, and Mike Larocca will join Neon's board.
  • Neon confirmed internal creative hires: Jeff Deutchman stays as president of acquisition, production and development for film, and Carina Sposato joins as EVP of television reporting to Schaefer.
  • Department M will contribute development assets and production‑ready projects to Neon’s slate as part of the deal, folding its existing film and TV projects into Neon’s distribution pipeline.
  • The Friedkin Group will remain a significant shareholder and board presence, and the move builds on Neon’s post‑Parasite rise and recent festival and acquisition activity as indie distributors push to vertically integrate.