Ketchup Entertainment Acquires ‘Coyote vs. Acme’

Warner Bros. has sold the distribution rights for the live-action/animated film Coyote vs. Acme to Ketchup Entertainment for an estimated $50 million, with plans for a theatrical release in 2026.

The film, directed by Dave Green and starring John Cena and Will Forte, had been shelved in 2023 as part of a tax write-off by Warner Bros., prompting backlash from fans and creatives.

Ketchup Entertainment’s acquisition marks a revival for the project, which blends nostalgia with modern storytelling and is based on Ian Frazier’s The New Yorker article about Wile E. Coyote suing the Acme Corporation for defective products.

The film had a production budget of $70–72 million, and Warner Bros.’ decision to shelve it allowed them to claim a $30 million tax deduction. This move was widely criticized, especially given positive early feedback about the film’s quality.

Ketchup Entertainment plans to introduce the film to a new generation while preserving its ties to the classic Looney Tunes characters