Latest news with #HassanYoussef
Time of India
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Vox Media's gaming website Polygon sold to pornography Mogul Hassan Youssef's Valnet; almost entire staff laid off
Representative Image In a surprising move, Polygon, Vox Media's video games website, has been acquired by Valnet, a media company founded and led by Hassan Youssef , a former figure in the adult entertainment industry and co-founder of the well-known pornography site Brazzers. The news of the acquisition and subsequent layoffs at Polygon broke abruptly on social media, with numerous Polygon writers and editors reporting the sudden termination of their employment. According to a report by 404 Media, the acquisition by a company with ties to the pornography industry has left many within the gaming journalism community reeling. This development comes amidst an already challenging period for media, with widespread layoffs impacting various publications for years. Video game publications have been particularly affected recently, with the closure of the legendary magazine Game Informer in 2024 and layoffs at Gamespot and other outlets. However, Polygon, a brand built from the ground up by Vox, with its substantial staff, reputable reporters, significant YouTube presence, and what was perceived as stable leadership, did not appear to be on the brink of a sale and mass layoffs. Valnet Media owns a portfolio of adult entertainment websites Valnet Media owns a portfolio of entertainment websites, including Screen Rant and Collider, as well as several gaming-focused sites such as TheGamer, DualShockers, and Game Rant. 404 Media sheds light on Youssef's background, tracing his entry into the internet pornography industry back to 2003. Starting with a foosball enthusiasts group that included his brother Sam and Concordia University students Matt Keezer and Stephane Manos, Youssef and his partners recognized a lucrative opportunity in online adult entertainment. This led to the creation of sites like Jugg World, Ass Listing, KeezMovies, and XXX Rated Chicks. Jugg World eventually evolved into an affiliate network, and Brazzers was launched as a pay-per-view site. 404 Media notes that some attribute the prevalence of "giant boobs" in pornography to the business strategy of Youssef and his associates, who reportedly focused on this niche for its low cost and high traffic. Former Mindgeek CEO Feras Antoon reportedly told New York Magazine that they concentrated on breasts "because the big-tits niche was so cheap," and subsequently expanded into the "MILF niche," becoming dominant in that area. Sam and Hassan Youssef also co-founded Mansef, an early "thumbnail gallery post" website for pornography. 404 Media details the subsequent complex history of acquisitions and sales within the pornography industry, noting that Mansef was sold to Fabian Thylmann and became Manwin. Thylmann continued acquiring numerous sites before facing tax evasion charges and ultimately selling his holdings to Antoon and David Tassilo, who rebranded the company as Mindgeek and continued the acquisition spree, including the flagship site Pornhub. Antoon and Tassilo resigned in 2022 amid accusations of abuse on their platforms, and private equity firm Ethical Capital Partners acquired the company in 2023, renaming it Aylo. Hassan Youssef on Polygone acquisition Following their ventures in the broader pornography industry, Sam and Hassan Youssef co-founded Valnet. Hassan currently serves as the company's CEO, while Sam is a board member and also the founder and CEO of Valsoft, an enterprise software company. In a press release, Hassan Youssef, now identified as Valnet's founder and SEO, stated, "This moment marks a powerful reaffirmation of our deep commitment to gaming, a space we've passionately invested in for years. The addition of Polygon not only strengthens our editorial muscle but also amplifies our ability to deliver unmatched value to both audiences and advertisers. At Valnet, we're not just participants in this space; we are its undisputed leader, and today, that leadership has never felt stronger." The acquisition of a prominent gaming news site like Polygon by a company with roots in the pornography industry, coupled with the reported immediate layoffs of a significant portion of its staff, has sparked considerable discussion and concern within the media and gaming communities. The long-term implications for Polygon's editorial direction and the broader landscape of video game journalism remain to be seen. AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
National Post
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- National Post
Valnet Acquires Premium Gaming Publication Polygon from Vox Media
MONTREAL — Valnet, a leading global digital publishing and media investment company, announced today that it has acquired the premium gaming publication Polygon from Vox Media, the modern media company. Polygon will join Valnet's robust gaming portfolio, known as The Valnet Gaming Group, which collectively reaches over 1.2 billion users annually. The acquisition, an asset deal, closed today. Article content Perfectly aligned with Valnet's long-term growth strategy, Polygon will now integrate Valnet's Gaming Portfolio, which includes industry-leading publications such as Game Rant, TheGamer, Fextralife, OpenCritic, DualShockers, and HardcoreGamer. This addition follows Valnet's recent acquisition of FextraLife earlier this year, further strengthening its position in the gaming media landscape. With Valnet's proven operational excellence, Polygon is poised to reach new editorial heights through focused investment and innovation. Article content 'It is with immense pride and gratitude that we welcome Polygon into our growing family of world-class gaming brands,' said Hassan Youssef, CEO & Founder at Valnet. 'This moment marks a powerful reaffirmation of our deep commitment to gaming, a space we've passionately invested in for years. The addition of Polygon not only strengthens our editorial muscle but also amplifies our ability to deliver unmatched value to both audiences and advertisers. At Valnet, we're not just participants in this space; we are its undisputed leader, and today, that leadership has never felt stronger.' Article content Founded in 2012 as part of Vox Media's portfolio, Polygon reaches a high-value audience across its site, social media, YouTube channels, videos, newsletters, and more, with an emphasis on community engagement. The brand is known for its in-depth and analytical approach to video game journalism, publishing feature articles, essays, and reviews that delve into the cultural, social, and artistic aspects of gaming. While video games are a central focus, Polygon also covers a broader spectrum of pop culture and entertainment topics -including movies, TV shows, and technology. Polygon serves as a guide for a new generation of pop culture omnivores, helping them navigate the vast gaming and entertainment landscape with intelligence and a sense of fun. Article content 'We're proud to have built Polygon into the gaming authority for both experts and casual fans alike, a publication that has informed and delighted tens of millions of gaming enthusiasts since its founding at Vox Media more than a decade ago,' said Jim Bankoff, Vox Media's co-founder, chair, and CEO. 'This transaction will enable us to focus our energies and investment resources in other priority areas of growth across our portfolio of iconic digital publications and audio/video programming, while enabling Valnet to grow their leadership and authority in the gaming information category.' Article content Polygon attracts a US monthly reach of over 6 million (Comscore), with more than 3.5 million social media followers. Article content About Polygon Article content Polygon is the next-generation entertainment brand, illuminating the entertainment world through the lens of those who grew up playing video games, reading comics, and are obsessed with internet culture. As a leading industry voice, Polygon is a top source for smart, critical, and entertaining content surrounding cultural moments born of gaming and the future of entertainment. Polygon truly understands these next-generation communities because they are the fans and are embedded in YouTube, TikTok, and your favorite gaming communities. Article content About Valnet Article content Valnet is a leading digital publishing and media investment company that owns and operates over 27 authoritative publications across diverse verticals, including entertainment, sports, technology, automotive, gaming, lifestyle, and travel. Valnet is a premier acquirer in digital publishing, specializing in acquiring, operating, and growing digital publications that hold strategic importance in their respective markets. A global company, Valnet operates offices in Montreal, Miami, New York, Virginia, and Halifax. Article content Article content Article content Article content Contacts Article content Rony Arzoumanian Head of M&A (514) 733-1010 rony.a@ Article content Article content
Yahoo
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Valnet Acquires Premium Gaming Publication Polygon from Vox Media
Polygon joins Valnet's robust gaming portfolio known as The Valnet Gaming Group. MONTREAL, May 01, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Valnet, a leading global digital publishing and media investment company, announced today that it has acquired the premium gaming publication Polygon from Vox Media, the modern media company. Polygon will join Valnet's robust gaming portfolio, known as The Valnet Gaming Group, which collectively reaches over 1.2 billion users annually. The acquisition, an asset deal, closed today. Perfectly aligned with Valnet's long-term growth strategy, Polygon will now integrate Valnet's Gaming Portfolio, which includes industry-leading publications such as Game Rant, TheGamer, Fextralife, OpenCritic, DualShockers, and HardcoreGamer. This addition follows Valnet's recent acquisition of FextraLife earlier this year, further strengthening its position in the gaming media landscape. With Valnet's proven operational excellence, Polygon is poised to reach new editorial heights through focused investment and innovation. "It is with immense pride and gratitude that we welcome Polygon into our growing family of world-class gaming brands," said Hassan Youssef, CEO & Founder at Valnet. "This moment marks a powerful reaffirmation of our deep commitment to gaming, a space we've passionately invested in for years. The addition of Polygon not only strengthens our editorial muscle but also amplifies our ability to deliver unmatched value to both audiences and advertisers. At Valnet, we're not just participants in this space; we are its undisputed leader, and today, that leadership has never felt stronger." Founded in 2012 as part of Vox Media's portfolio, Polygon reaches a high-value audience across its site, social media, YouTube channels, videos, newsletters, and more, with an emphasis on community engagement. The brand is known for its in-depth and analytical approach to video game journalism, publishing feature articles, essays, and reviews that delve into the cultural, social, and artistic aspects of gaming. While video games are a central focus, Polygon also covers a broader spectrum of pop culture and entertainment topics -including movies, TV shows, and technology. Polygon serves as a guide for a new generation of pop culture omnivores, helping them navigate the vast gaming and entertainment landscape with intelligence and a sense of fun. "We're proud to have built Polygon into the gaming authority for both experts and casual fans alike, a publication that has informed and delighted tens of millions of gaming enthusiasts since its founding at Vox Media more than a decade ago," said Jim Bankoff, Vox Media's co-founder, chair, and CEO. "This transaction will enable us to focus our energies and investment resources in other priority areas of growth across our portfolio of iconic digital publications and audio/video programming, while enabling Valnet to grow their leadership and authority in the gaming information category." Polygon attracts a US monthly reach of over 6 million (Comscore), with more than 3.5 million social media followers. About Polygon Polygon is the next-generation entertainment brand, illuminating the entertainment world through the lens of those who grew up playing video games, reading comics, and are obsessed with internet culture. As a leading industry voice, Polygon is a top source for smart, critical, and entertaining content surrounding cultural moments born of gaming and the future of entertainment. Polygon truly understands these next-generation communities because they are the fans and are embedded in YouTube, TikTok, and your favorite gaming communities. About Valnet Valnet is a leading digital publishing and media investment company that owns and operates over 27 authoritative publications across diverse verticals, including entertainment, sports, technology, automotive, gaming, lifestyle, and travel. Valnet is a premier acquirer in digital publishing, specializing in acquiring, operating, and growing digital publications that hold strategic importance in their respective markets. A global company, Valnet operates offices in Montreal, Miami, New York, Virginia, and Halifax. About Vox Media Vox Media is the leading modern media company, reaching audiences everywhere they are. Known for its editorial properties, including Vox, SB Nation, New York Magazine, Eater, and The Verge, the company's portfolio features the most relevant, respected, and engaging editorial properties and voices. The company is home to the award-winning Vox Media Podcast Network, one of the largest in the U.S., as well as innovative technologies that support the entire media industry, including the Concert advertising marketplace. View source version on Contacts Rony ArzoumanianHead of M&A(514) 733-1010rony.a@ Yury SmagorinskyVP, Legal Affairs(514) 733-1010legal@ Sign in to access your portfolio
Business Wire
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Wire
Valnet Acquires Premium Gaming Publication Polygon from Vox Media
MONTREAL--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Valnet, a leading global digital publishing and media investment company, announced today that it has acquired the premium gaming publication Polygon from Vox Media, the modern media company. Polygon will join Valnet's robust gaming portfolio, known as The Valnet Gaming Group, which collectively reaches over 1.2 billion users annually. The acquisition, an asset deal, closed today. Perfectly aligned with Valnet's long-term growth strategy, Polygon will now integrate Valnet's Gaming Portfolio, which includes industry-leading publications such as Game Rant, TheGamer, Fextralife, OpenCritic, DualShockers, and HardcoreGamer. This addition follows Valnet's recent acquisition of FextraLife earlier this year, further strengthening its position in the gaming media landscape. With Valnet's proven operational excellence, Polygon is poised to reach new editorial heights through focused investment and innovation. 'It is with immense pride and gratitude that we welcome Polygon into our growing family of world-class gaming brands," said Hassan Youssef, CEO & Founder at Valnet. 'This moment marks a powerful reaffirmation of our deep commitment to gaming, a space we've passionately invested in for years. The addition of Polygon not only strengthens our editorial muscle but also amplifies our ability to deliver unmatched value to both audiences and advertisers. At Valnet, we're not just participants in this space; we are its undisputed leader, and today, that leadership has never felt stronger.' Founded in 2012 as part of Vox Media's portfolio, Polygon reaches a high-value audience across its site, social media, YouTube channels, videos, newsletters, and more, with an emphasis on community engagement. The brand is known for its in-depth and analytical approach to video game journalism, publishing feature articles, essays, and reviews that delve into the cultural, social, and artistic aspects of gaming. While video games are a central focus, Polygon also covers a broader spectrum of pop culture and entertainment topics -including movies, TV shows, and technology. Polygon serves as a guide for a new generation of pop culture omnivores, helping them navigate the vast gaming and entertainment landscape with intelligence and a sense of fun. 'We're proud to have built Polygon into the gaming authority for both experts and casual fans alike, a publication that has informed and delighted tens of millions of gaming enthusiasts since its founding at Vox Media more than a decade ago,' said Jim Bankoff, Vox Media's co-founder, chair, and CEO. 'This transaction will enable us to focus our energies and investment resources in other priority areas of growth across our portfolio of iconic digital publications and audio/video programming, while enabling Valnet to grow their leadership and authority in the gaming information category.' Polygon attracts a US monthly reach of over 6 million (Comscore), with more than 3.5 million social media followers. About Polygon Polygon is the next-generation entertainment brand, illuminating the entertainment world through the lens of those who grew up playing video games, reading comics, and are obsessed with internet culture. As a leading industry voice, Polygon is a top source for smart, critical, and entertaining content surrounding cultural moments born of gaming and the future of entertainment. Polygon truly understands these next-generation communities because they are the fans and are embedded in YouTube, TikTok, and your favorite gaming communities. About Valnet Valnet is a leading digital publishing and media investment company that owns and operates over 27 authoritative publications across diverse verticals, including entertainment, sports, technology, automotive, gaming, lifestyle, and travel. Valnet is a premier acquirer in digital publishing, specializing in acquiring, operating, and growing digital publications that hold strategic importance in their respective markets. A global company, Valnet operates offices in Montreal, Miami, New York, Virginia, and Halifax. About Vox Media Vox Media is the leading modern media company, reaching audiences everywhere they are. Known for its editorial properties, including Vox, SB Nation, New York Magazine, Eater, and The Verge, the company's portfolio features the most relevant, respected, and engaging editorial properties and voices. The company is home to the award-winning Vox Media Podcast Network, one of the largest in the U.S., as well as innovative technologies that support the entire media industry, including the Concert advertising marketplace.
Yahoo
30-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Valnet Sues TheWrap for Libel Over Investigative Article About ‘Sweatshop' Conditions at Entertainment Sites
Valnet, the digital media company that owns Screen Rant, Collider, CBR and MovieWeb, has sued TheWrap for $64.5 million in damages over an investigative article about the owner's past ties to porn sites and 'sweatshop' working conditions for its writers. The Canadian company claims that the March 20 article 'Valnet Blues: How Online Porn Pioneer Hassan Youssef Built a Digital Media 'Sweatshop'' libeled the company and its CEO Hassan Youssef and engaged in unfair competition by harming a rival business, citing itself as a competitor to TheWrap. The article, by senior reporter and named defendant Umberto Gonzalez, cites 15 current and former contributors who said Valnet routinely exploits writers, replaces them with cheap contractors and blacklists any who complain. One freelancer, Daniel Quintiliano, has filed a lawsuit claiming oppressive work conditions, and is seeking to establish a class action. Quintiliano's lawsuit alleges that Valnet fails to pay minimum wage, overtime, provide meal or rest breaks and reimburse business expenses. The article cites among former contributors a Collider writer who said the site maintains 'a content mill, borderline like almost sweatshop-level' where hundreds of writers are 'constantly being pushed to write more, to do it quicker,' while editors face 'pretty high level of quotas' despite being understaffed. The article also cited and published a list of more than 400 '2025 Blacklisted Freelancers,' as the document is titled, blacklisting writers who have criticized Valnet or for conduct such as 'creating drama.' Robert Chapman, counsel for TheWrap, issued this statement, noting that Valnet has also sued the company in Canada: 'Valnet Inc. and Hassan Youseff have now filed two inconsistent, contradictory and meritless lawsuits,' he stated. 'In one lawsuit, they claim they were harmed because TheWrap told the truth about them. In the other lawsuit, based upon the identical article, they claim they were harmed because TheWrap did NOT tell the truth about them. In one lawsuit they sued the reporter, Umberto Gonzalez, claiming he caused harm, and in the other lawsuit Mr. Gonzalez is not named as a defendant at all. Fortunately, there are judges and juries who will sort out these blatant inconsistencies and reject these claims.' The lawsuit, filed April 25 in a Delaware federal court, says the article damaged the reputations of Valnet and Youssef, also a plaintiff, with inaccuracies and malicious intent that caused actual and anticipated financial losses. The article has also caused Youssef 'tremendous emotional distress, affecting (among other things) his mood, temperament and his ability to sleep,' the lawsuit said, additionally claiming that TheWrap 'exploited Valnet's copyrighted photographs — without permission or justification — and included them as part of its smear job against Plaintiffs.' (The image used for the original investigative report can be viewed above.) The lawsuit seeks at least $30 million for Valnet and $1.5 million for Youssef for libel; and another $30 million for Valnet for unfair business practices, claiming TheWrap intended to harm Valnet for its own business gain. The suit suggests another $3 million in punitive damages and seeks an injunction assuring the article no longer be published and a corrective statement is issued. The post Valnet Sues TheWrap for Libel Over Investigative Article About 'Sweatshop' Conditions at Entertainment Sites appeared first on TheWrap.
