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Stripe Media Founder Faces 33 Fraud Charges

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Tuesday, February 3rd 2026 at 19:12 GMT by The New Zealand Herald
      Locales: NEW ZEALAND, UNITED STATES

Auckland, New Zealand - February 4th, 2026 - Alex Breingan, the founder and former boss of Stripe Media (formerly Stripe Studios), is facing a staggering 33 charges laid by the Serious Fraud Office (SFO), plunging the New Zealand screen industry into turmoil. The charges, revealed last week and formally filed in Auckland District Court, allege a systematic pattern of deception surrounding the funding and production of several high-profile television projects.

Breingan is accused of 31 counts of obtaining by deception, one count of using a document to obtain credit, and one count of presenting a false document. These accusations stem from allegations that Breingan deliberately misled investors, including public funding body NZ On Air, and private stakeholders about the financial health of Stripe Media and the progress of its television productions. He is due to appear in court next month.

The SFO's investigation centers on the period between 2018 and 2023, during which Stripe Media reportedly secured $18.3 million in funding. A significant portion of this - $3.3 million - came from NZ On Air specifically earmarked for the production of the series Lilac, which was ultimately cancelled. The core allegation is that Breingan misrepresented the company's financial position and the viability of its projects to attract and retain investment.

Stripe Media was a prominent player in the New Zealand television landscape, known for productions like the critically acclaimed The Curious Death of Arthur Pilbeam and the sci-fi drama Nektar. The company's collapse and the subsequent SFO investigation have raised serious questions about financial oversight within the screen industry and the safeguards in place to protect public funds.

The Allegations in Detail

The SFO alleges that Breingan knowingly provided false information to investors, portraying a picture of financial stability and project delivery that was, in reality, inaccurate. This included allegedly inflating production timelines, misrepresenting budget allocations, and concealing mounting debts. The charges suggest a deliberate attempt to maintain the illusion of a thriving business to continue attracting investment and securing further funding. The statement of facts filed with the court, while remaining under wraps to a large extent, reportedly details specific instances where Breingan allegedly falsified documents and made misleading statements.

Impact on NZ On Air and Public Funding The cancellation of Lilac, after receiving $3.3 million in funding from NZ On Air, is a particularly concerning aspect of the case. This loss not only represents a significant financial setback for the public funding body but also highlights a potential vulnerability in the system. NZ On Air plays a crucial role in fostering New Zealand's screen industry, and the alleged deception raises questions about the due diligence processes and risk assessment protocols in place.

NZ On Air has stated it is cooperating fully with the SFO investigation. The organization is likely to review its funding criteria and oversight mechanisms to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Experts predict a more stringent application process and increased scrutiny of financial reporting for companies seeking public funding.

Broader Implications for the Screen Industry

The Stripe Media scandal has sent shockwaves through the New Zealand screen industry. Many producers and investors are now reassessing their own internal controls and risk management strategies. The incident has fueled calls for greater transparency and accountability within the sector, as well as the implementation of independent audits and financial oversight committees.

The potential long-term consequences could include a tightening of funding availability, increased caution from private investors, and a loss of confidence in the sector as a whole. Some fear this could stifle creativity and innovation, hindering the growth of the New Zealand screen industry.

What's Next?

Alex Breingan's upcoming court appearance is expected to draw significant media attention. The SFO will present its evidence, and Breingan will have the opportunity to defend himself against the charges. The legal proceedings are likely to be complex and lengthy, potentially lasting several months, if not years. The outcome of the case will have significant ramifications not only for Breingan personally but also for the future of Stripe Media and the broader New Zealand screen industry. The industry is watching closely, hoping for a resolution that restores trust and safeguards the future of screen production in New Zealand.