Charles Barkley is launching a new production venture with big plans to move into scripted, documentary and live programming.
The former NBA star and current TNT Sports analyst will launch Round Mound Media in partnership with EverWonder Studios, with support from Jeff Zucker’s Redbird IMI. Mark Perman, Berkeley’s longtime manager, will not only lead the management company but also serve as Round Mound’s president.
TNT Sports plans to sign a first-look deal with Round Mound, and Barkley recently reaffirmed his commitment to remain with the company as an on-air commentator, no matter what happens with his NBA rights. The company already has 10 projects in development, including the “definitive” documentary on Berkeley’s life.
“Round Mound Media is about creating an outlet for my vision of sharing compelling, original stories that captivate audiences around the world,” Barclay said in a statement. “I’m always looking for projects and relationships that allow me to be authentic and hopefully build my platform to make the world a better place. EverWonder Studio is… It’s the perfect partner to be my creative home and take this to the next level. I know our fans will love what we’re developing and I’m looking forward to getting started.”
Everwonder, led by former Time Studio chief Ian Orefice, was founded last year as the first company backed by Zucker’s Redbird IMI. It prioritizes sports-related content and plans to launch the Players Era Festival, a collegiate sports event focused on NIL.
Of course, Barkley and Zucker have known each other since Zucker’s time at WarnerMedia, where he led both CNN and Turner Sports.
“Charles has established himself as one of the most influential voices in sports media, and this joint venture creates an opportunity to take his experience and passion for storytelling to the next level. “We aim to do so,” Orefice said. “We couldn’t be more honored and excited to support and partner with Charles and Mark on this new journey, especially in this dynamic climate for sport and the world at large.”
“With this new joint venture, we will be able to further elevate Charles’ prolific ideas with the support of a studio that understands and believes in Charles’ creative vision,” Perman added. . “Everwonder is a great partner to amplify Charles’ unique voice and perspective in ways that fans and audiences have never seen before, and we can’t wait to bring these new opportunities to the screen.”