Courtesy: Paul Frank Industries

Billionaire Haim Saban, the Israeli-American media proprietor, just bought lifestyle company Paul Frank Industries. Ranked by Forbes as the 102nd richest person in America with an estimated net worth of 2.8 billion, the mogul oversaw the acquisition of the Southern California design, licensing and retail operation known best for its trademarked character, Julius the monkey, and over 100 characters more. According to the LA Times, the company which includes all the artistry and designs from the talented cartoonist was purchased for roughly $50 million. This will be the second similar acquisition for Saban, with his ‘Saban Brands’ division after purchasing the ‘Power Rangers’ franchise and making a fortune through the years. For obvious reasons, the company plans to develop new content and media opportunities based on all the characters in the Paul Frank Industries portfolio, including most of all Julius, whose cute monkey face is on everything from clothing to accessories and then some. If Saban can turn Julius the monkey into a TV and movie star, I think the guesstimated $50 million he spent will be a drop in the bucket.