Cartoon Saloon, the Studio Behind ‘The Breadwinner,’ Welcomes a New CEO

Cartoon Saloon Appoints Anthony Leo as New CEO

Irish animation studio Cartoon Saloon has announced the appointment of Anthony Leo as its new CEO. Leo joins the company following a successful tenure at Aircraft Pictures in Canada, where he co-produced the Oscar-nominated animated feature The Breadwinner in collaboration with Cartoon Saloon.

Leo succeeds Gerry Shirren, who retired at the end of 2025 after 12 years with the company. Rather than assuming the role of Managing Director, Leo will steer the strategic direction and growth of Cartoon Saloon, working alongside co-founders Tomm Moore, Nora Twomey, and Paul Young. His focus will be on the company’s expansion in feature films, television series, and new media platforms.

Cartoon Saloon has received five Academy Award nominations for its films, including The Secret of Kells, Song of the Sea, The Breadwinner, Wolfwalkers, and most recently, My Father’s Dragon. Additionally, the studio’s popular preschool series Puffin Rock, co-produced with Dog Ears and featuring the voice of Chris O’Dowd, is currently in its third season.

Leo co-founded Aircraft Pictures with Andrew Rosen two decades ago and has played a significant role in projects such as Geek Girl and Julián, also in partnership with Cartoon Saloon. He will maintain his position as Chairman of the Board at Aircraft Pictures, as well as his membership in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

“Anthony’s deep understanding of production, international co-financing, and global distribution uniquely equips him to guide Cartoon Saloon into its next phase of growth and innovation,” said co-founder Tomm Moore. “His passion for artist-driven storytelling aligns perfectly with our mission. We thank Gerry for his dedication to our artists and the tremendous positive impact he has had on our organization, and we wish him every success in retirement.”

In response to his appointment, Leo expressed his excitement: “Having collaborated with Nora, Tomm, Paul, and Gerry for over a decade, I’m honored to join this remarkable company at such an important moment in its journey. We have an extraordinary opportunity to build a sustainable future that ensures audiences everywhere will continue to discover and enjoy Cartoon Saloon’s bold, creator-driven films and series for generations to come.”