Anthony Shepherd and Chris Barlow have partnered to launch Fuzzy Lightbulb, a character development studio creating custom mascots for the attractions industry

Lauren Heath-Jones | Planet Attractions | 14 Apr 2025

Fuzzy Lightbulb is the brainchild of Anthony Shepherd (left) and Chris Barlow (right) Credit: Canva
Entertainment and leisure industry veterans Anthony ‘Shep’ Shepherd and Chris Barlow have launched a new company specialising in custom characters and character-led immersive entertainment experiences for the attractions industry.
Called Fuzzy Lightbulb, the new character development studio is the result of a longstanding creative partnership between Shep and Barlow, who have worked for some of the world’s biggest entertainment brands, including Nickelodeon, the BBC, Netflix, Lucas Film, Merlin Entertainments and Marella Cruise.
It draws on the pair’s combined 40 years of experience in multiple industries, including theatre, television and film, to deliver custom character design, puppet and mascot creation, and immersive family entertainment solutions for theme parks, resorts, events, and cruise lines.
Combining craftsmanship and storytelling, the studio offers a broad range of services including character audit and analysis, creative development, design and delivery.
Additional services include experience, retail and commercial strategy, content creation, campaign management, studio and production content, and training, support and on-site maintenance.
“Having collaborated extensively on high-end projects and international character brand campaigns, we’ve known for a while that it was time to formally join forces,” Barlow told Planet Attractions.
“Building on our legacy, in targeted areas of the industry, we are looking forward to new and interesting projects, bringing meaningful character concepts to life.”
Shep added: “The creative partnership that Chris and I have is already tried, tested and trusted by some of the biggest brands in the industry.
“Through Fuzzy Lightbulb we’re uniting our passion for storytelling and craftsmanship. I’m thrilled to be continuing the collaboration – delivering character experiences that become unforgettable moments.
“In everything Fuzzy Lightbulb does, we think ‘experience’, designing tailored concepts and creative strategies that put client goals at the centre of our thinking.”
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