Russo Bros. Production Company Pushes Further Into Gaming With New Hire

The production company AGBO, run by Anthony and Joe Russo, which is responsible for action series like the Citadel franchise on Prime Video and films such as The Gray Man and Extraction for Netflix, has officially brought on a seasoned gaming executive to help drive their expansion into more interactive forms of entertainment.

Pete Wanat, who was previously vice president at Universal Pictures Digital Platforms Group and more recently with mobile game developer Nifty Games, has been appointed as the president of Interactive Technology at AGBO, according to a statement released by the company on Thursday.

Donald Mustard, a partner at AGBO, praised Pete’s exceptional knowledge and comprehensive grasp of game development and interactive technologies. This proficiency will enable us to effortlessly incorporate our characters and narratives into extraordinary new projects,” said Mustard. “Under his guidance, we can develop vast storyworlds that span films, television, and video games, providing audiences with immersive ways to interact with our tales.

In 2017, a company based in Los Angeles was established while the duo was working on Marvel’s hit movies “Avengers: Infinity War” and “Endgame.” Five years later, the company expanded its goals by selling a $400 million minority share to Nexon Co., a well-known global video game developer.

In 2023, AGBO brought on board Mustard, a key figure in the creation of Fortnite, and Chris Brearton, who was previously the head of MGM Studios. Not long after, they also hired Dr. Dominic Hughes to supervise storytelling with the help of artificial intelligence technology. Although AGBO has announced various upcoming movie and TV projects, such as a Citadel spinoff for Amazon and an adaptation of The Electric State for Netflix, they have not yet revealed their main venture into gaming or interactive entertainment yet.

Wanat’s professional history is rooted in video game production, having worked on various projects associated with Universal franchises such as “Jurassic World,” “Despicable Me,” and “Fast & Furious,” as well as recognizable brands like “Aliens,” LEGO, “South Park,” and sports titles including the NFL, NBA, and MLB. This executive will be overseen by Angela Russo-Otstot, the chief creative officer at AGBO.

According to Wanat, “AGBO leads the charge in enabling artists to create uniquely by merging their unique intellectual properties into fresh forms of interactive entertainment.” He is thrilled about using his extensive gaming knowledge and enthusiasm to assist the internal teams, enhance the studio’s talents, and foster AGBO’s culture of inventiveness and teamwork.

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2025-02-13 18:24