A groundbreaking animated children’s series set to premiere this fall is bypassing traditional TV networks and streaming platforms entirely, choosing instead to launch through a decentralized blockchain-based platform. The highly anticipated show, titled “Owen Nowhere,” marks a bold venture into the evolving world of Web3 entertainment and will be accompanied by an integrated crypto wallet system.
This innovative project comes from We Ghosted Media, a production studio cofounded by Chris Jammal—known for his work on the hit series “Bob’s Burgers”—and Jaclynn Demas, producer of the popular children’s program “Peg + Cat.” By partnering with blockchain company Lamina1, established by Neal Stephenson, author of the iconic novel “Snow Crash,” the creators aim to pioneer new possibilities in content delivery and audience interaction.
Lamina1, launched in 2022, provides a Layer 1 blockchain environment designed specifically for creators to retain control and monetize intellectual property. Its broader goal is to build a fully functional metaverse, a shared virtual world reminiscent of Stephenson’s original vision laid out in his groundbreaking 1992 book.
Despite the relatively slow adoption of blockchain technology and metaverse concepts in the mainstream market, Jammal and Demas believe its inherent interactivity will draw a loyal user base. They view the show’s participatory elements—enabled by decentralized platforms—as uniquely appealing, especially to younger, digitally-savvy demographics.
“Owen Nowhere” chronicles the adventures of Owen B. Gloom, a creative preteen filming a humorous family road trip to eccentric tourist destinations. Featuring unusual, comic scenarios with a twist—including his adoptive vampire parents, a pet cat, and even a family fish traveling in a stroller—this vibrant series promises laughter along with inventive storytelling. The creators envision viewers influencing content directly, choosing where plot lines unfold and customizing elements such as characters’ clothing or vehicle designs, thereby cultivating a dynamic viewing community.
Upon its release, “Owen Nowhere” will utilize Lamina1’s forthcoming Spaces platform, which allows artists to create immersive environments, interactive content, and digital collectibles, ranging from augmented reality (AR) to virtual reality (VR) experiences. Viewers will have access to behind-the-scenes exclusives, community votes, and unique digital assets, creating opportunities for participation and direct investment in the show’s ongoing development.
Nevertheless, this approach presents significant obstacles, particularly regarding children’s safe interaction with crypto wallets, prompting understandable parental concerns. Even with parents controlling these wallets, apprehension arises around potential exposure to financial complexities or risks. However, some parents are becoming increasingly open to this technology, exemplified by past initiatives like crypto summer camps and family-oriented NFT launches.
Responding to these valid concerns, Lamina1 CEO Rebecca Barkin acknowledges that effective safeguards and parental controls are a critical area for development. According to her, real-world application and feedback will help shape appropriate protective measures to ensure responsible engagement.
Barkin clarifies that the show’s crypto tokens need not revolve solely around monetary trading, emphasizing their potential as loyalty incentives and community-oriented rewards. Through digital collectibles, such as exclusive artwork and customizable online items, fans can support and even financially invest in the production process, cementing the bond between creators and audiences.
Though primarily targeting younger viewers, “Owen Nowhere” is carefully crafted to entertain older audiences as well, following the successful formula employed by shows like “Bob’s Burgers.” The producers hope to reach families broadly without targeting the youngest age brackets outright, thus ensuring its humorous and engaging content resonates across age groups.
The launch of Lamina1’s Spaces is expected in the fall, and other notable projects, including visual effects studio Wētā’s “Artefact,” known for its contributions to “Lord of the Rings,” will debut alongside it. Lamina1 has already secured approximately $9 million in funding from prominent investors such as LinkedIn’s Reid Hoffman and Bloq’s Matthew Roszak, making this ambitious foray into kid-focused blockchain entertainment both financially viable and closely watched.
