Critical Role has hired Hallmark Media alum Alyssa Zeisler as general manager of its paid streaming service Beacon.
Launch in May 2024 by the Critical Role team, Beacon offers exclusive and early access content for fans of the D&D-inspired brand, as well as live event pre-sales, instant access to VODs and podcasts, discounts on merchandise
In her new role, Zeisler will oversee Beacon’s product roadmap, business performance, content and platform strategy, as well as the continued evolution of Beacon as a community hub, creator-led ecosystem, and a central destination for all things Critical Role and table-top, role-playing games. Under Zeisler, Critical Role’s mission is to continue to grow Beacon “as a fan-first membership experience while supporting Critical Role’s long-term vision for sustainable, meaningful expansion across relevant formats, platforms, and markets.”
Most recently, Zeisler was Hallmark Media’s vice president of product, where she helped lead the relaunch of streamer Hallmark+. Prior to her time at Hallmark, Zeisler worked for Dow Jones, where she served as vice president of subscription and strategic products and research development chief at The Wall Street Journal. Previously, Zeisler was audience managing editor at Barron’s.
“Beacon is central to how we think about the future of Critical Role, and it’s time for it to level up and evolve,” Critical Role CEO and co-founder Travis Willingham said. “Alyssa brings exactly the kind of leadership this next phase requires. She understands how to build lasting, audience-first platforms at scale, and her experience leading subscription and direct-to-consumer businesses makes her a perfect fit to help Beacon grow while staying true to the unique authenticity that makes Critical Role what it is.”
Zeisler added: “My goal for Beacon is to make it the gold standard for direct-to-consumer platforms. It’s a place where we can experiment with new formats in the TTRPG space while creating a seamless experience for fans. We’re building the blueprint for how a community-led brand transitions into a sustainable, global media company, and I’m excited to be at the helm as we evolve this ecosystem into something truly industry-defining.”