Shivangi Sinha
Board games have always been a source of bonding and friendly competition, yet there’s often a shortage of fresh and creative options that truly stand out. As people constantly seek new ways to connect and be entertained, the demand for innovative games has continued to grow. That’s where McMiLLER Games entered the spotlight. In ABC’s ‘Shark Tank’ season 17, episode 7, the company, which was founded by a couple who were genuine board-game enthusiasts, introduced their vision with infectious energy. Their pitch clearly showcased not only their passion for interactive entertainment but also the strong potential they believed their unique game concepts could bring to a market eager for something new.
McMiLLER Games: Who Are They and What Do They Do?
Both David McGranaghan and Julian Miller had already built solid careers as actors before launching their venture. David graduated from the Guildford School of Acting with a BA in Musical Theatre in 2007 and later earned roles in London’s West End. By 2011, he was performing as a professional actor with the Royal Shakespeare Company. While living in London in 2010, he went on a blind date that led to him meeting Julian Miller. The latter had completed his postgraduate Musical Theatre studies at the Royal School of Music from 2004 to 2005 and had carved out a comedic acting path, appearing in films like ‘Spy’ and ‘Eurovision.’ Their shared artistic backgrounds sparked an instant connection, and much more.
Beyond their professional lives, one of the strongest bonds they discovered was their shared passion for creativity and board games. They found that whenever they put their minds together, their ideas flowed naturally, and collaboration came effortlessly. Confident that they could build something meaningful together, they decided to take a bold step. In 2017, they moved to Los Angeles, California, and launched McMiLLER Games. Julian stepped into the role of Director, while McGranaghan became the CEO, forming a partnership that blended their talents perfectly. Between 2018 and 2021, Julian also worked as an actor and writer with Brillstein Entertainment Partners. However, even with those commitments, his primary focus remained on expanding and strengthening their growing business.
McMiLLER Games is a creative, sustainability-focused party-game company that believes game nights should be simple, silly, and full of laughter. Their breakout hit is It’s Bananas! turns players into tail-swinging monkeys completing goofy challenges, while Fire in the Hole is a pirate-themed pop-up ship where players launch felt “cannonballs” in a chaotic race to sink it. Their outdoor/indoor hybrid Fish Fight mixes cornhole-style play with physical team challenges and is made from plant-based, plastic-free materials. They’ve also expanded their lineup with Cat Mitt, a quick, cozy family dexterity game, and UpRoar, a lively party title that requires one to moo like a cow. Rather than complex strategy titles, they design easy-to-learn, high-energy experiences that bring friends and families together.
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McMiLLER Games: Where Are They Now?
McMiLLER Games has grown into one of the most recognizable names in the modern party-game space, proudly boasting sales of over 1 million copies worldwide and an impressive 1 billion total online views. Their games are designed for all ages, with most suitable for kids 8 years and above, making them a popular choice for family nights, classroom activities, and group gatherings. Every title can be purchased directly through their website, and they maintain accessible pricing: It’s Bananas! for $19.99, The Cat Mitt Game for $21.99, Fish Fight for $21.99, Fire in the Hole for $21.99, and UpRoar for $9.99. They also retail through partners such as RBG, Toyology, and Toys South, while wholesale buyers can place bulk orders through Faire, giving the brand a wide distribution footprint.
A major factor behind McMiLLER Games’ rapid rise has been their smart use of social media and short-form viral content. Their videos perform exceptionally well on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. This strategy has allowed them to reach global audiences organically, turning curious viewers into enthusiastic customers. On Instagram alone, McMiLLER Games has built a strong community of around 23,000 followers, with consistent engagement from families, creators, and game lovers who share their own play-throughs. Their digital presence not only highlights their games but also reinforces their playful, quirky brand identity, helping them stay relevant in a fast-paced entertainment landscape.
The company’s marketing approach extends beyond social media. McMiLLER Games participates in major industry events and trade shows, including the Atlanta Gift Show, Spielwarenmesse, and the Las Vegas Gift Show, where they connect with retailers, demonstrate new products, and strengthen relationships within the toy and game industry. These appearances help them reach new markets and showcase the craftsmanship and sustainability behind their designs. In November 2025, McMiLLER Games further boosted customer excitement by announcing a 20% holiday discount on all products, attracting new buyers and rewarding long-time supporters. Overall, their active industry participation has helped McMiLLER Games become a standout innovator, and they continue to bring fun, laughter, and inventive gameplay to homes around the world.
