Fortnite players are buzzing with excitement after recent leaks revealed that Epic Games is partnering with Paramount to bring iconic animated characters into the game as sidekicks. This collaboration could introduce companions from some of the most beloved franchises in entertainment history, including SpongeBob SquarePants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and even South Park.
What the Leaks Reveal
Data miners discovered references to Paramount-branded sidekicks in Fortnite’s internal files on November 23, 2025. Reliable leakers like SamLeakss, HYPEX, and ShiinaBR quickly shared the findings, sparking widespread speculation about which characters might appear. While Epic Games hasn’t officially confirmed the collaboration, the evidence points to a major expansion of the sidekick feature that launched just weeks ago.
The leak suggests several Paramount properties could be featured as sidekicks, though exact character names haven’t been revealed yet. Based on community discussions and previous Fortnite collaborations, the most likely candidates include franchises from Paramount’s extensive catalog of animated properties.
Possible Paramount Characters Coming to Fortnite
Here’s what fans might expect based on the leaked information:
- SpongeBob SquarePants – Gary the Snail, Patrick Star, or Plankton could make perfect pocket-sized companions
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – Mini versions of Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, or Raphael
- Transformers – Smaller robot companions from the Autobots or Decepticons
- South Park – Characters from the long-running animated series
- Dora the Explorer – Boots the monkey or other beloved characters from the show
- Nickelodeon properties – Various characters from the network’s extensive library
Understanding Fortnite Sidekicks
Sidekicks are Fortnite’s newest cosmetic feature, officially launching on November 1, 2025, alongside The Simpsons mini-season. These animated companions follow players across various game modes, including Battle Royale, LEGO Fortnite, and Creative maps. They react to the environment, show emotions, and can be customized with accessories, names, and physical traits.
The first sidekick, Peels (a banana-themed dog), became available through the Battle Pass. Shortly after, Epic released additional companions like Bonesy, Spike, and Lil’ Raptor in the Item Shop for 1,200 V-Bucks each. Players can personalize their sidekicks by selecting permanent physical traits during the initial setup, then changing accessories and names whenever they want. Customization items are unlocked through Sidekick Points, earned by spending time with your companion.
When to Expect Paramount Sidekicks
While no official release date has been announced, sources suggest the Paramount sidekicks will likely arrive with Fortnite Chapter 7. The collaboration appears to be in early development stages, which means Epic Games might expand the character roster before the official launch. Given that SpongeBob content has been separately leaked and community excitement is building, those characters could arrive first.
| Current Sidekicks | Price | Release Date |
|---|---|---|
| Peels | Battle Pass | November 1, 2025 |
| Bonesy | 1,200 V-Bucks | November 7, 2025 |
| Spike | 1,200 V-Bucks | November 7, 2025 |
| Lil’ Raptor | 1,200 V-Bucks | November 7, 2025 |
Community Reactions
Fortnite fans are expressing mixed feelings about the Paramount collaboration. Many players are excited about the possibility of having Gary the Snail from SpongeBob or mini Ninja Turtles following them around the map. One Reddit user commented they would definitely spend money on a Gary sidekick, while others are curious if this approach will be used for South Park collaborations.
However, some players have concerns about the current sidekick implementation. Several community members noted that pets don’t follow you while skydiving or in vehicles, appearing instead as floating blue orbs. The one-time permanent customization also feels limiting to some players, as it encourages buying multiple versions of the same sidekick to try different looks.
Why This Collaboration Makes Sense
Epic Games has a proven track record of successful collaborations with major entertainment brands. Fortnite has already featured content from Transformers, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Avatar: The Last Airbender, and The Legend of Korra. Partnering with Paramount for sidekicks feels like a natural next step, especially since many of these franchises already have established presence in the game.
The timing also aligns well with Fortnite’s strategy of expanding cosmetic options beyond character skins. Sidekicks offer a new revenue stream while giving players more ways to express their personality and connect with beloved franchises. Since sidekicks don’t provide competitive advantages and enemies can’t see them, they’re purely cosmetic additions that won’t affect gameplay balance.
FAQs
When will Paramount sidekicks come to Fortnite?
While no official date has been confirmed, leaks suggest Paramount sidekicks will likely arrive with Fortnite Chapter 7. The content appears to be in early development, so players might need to wait a few weeks or months before seeing these companions in the Item Shop.
How much will Paramount sidekicks cost?
Based on current sidekick pricing, Paramount companions will likely cost between 1,200 and 1,500 V-Bucks each. Some might be included in Battle Passes or special bundles, similar to how Peels was offered as a Battle Pass reward.
Which SpongeBob characters could become sidekicks?
The most likely SpongeBob sidekicks include Gary the Snail, mini versions of Patrick Star, Plankton, or even Squidward. Gary appears to be particularly popular among fans based on community reactions to the leak.
Can enemies see your sidekick in Fortnite?
No, enemies cannot see your sidekick during matches. This design choice prevents sidekicks from revealing your location when you’re hiding or trying to stay concealed. Only you and your teammates can see your companion.
How do you customize Fortnite sidekicks?
You customize sidekicks through the Locker menu. When you first unlock a sidekick, you select permanent physical traits like body type, ears, and base coloring. After locking in these traits, you can change the name and accessories anytime. Accessories are unlocked using Sidekick Points earned by playing with your companion.
Will TMNT sidekicks be available if they already exist as skins?
Yes, it’s possible. Fortnite has previously released the same characters in different cosmetic formats. Since Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles already exist as playable skins, Epic could introduce mini versions as sidekicks, giving fans another way to showcase their love for the franchise.
Do sidekicks work in all Fortnite game modes?
Sidekicks work in most Fortnite modes, including Battle Royale, LEGO Fortnite, and many Creative maps. However, they depend on whether the island creator has enabled sidekicks for their specific map. You’ll see your sidekick in the lobby and during matches where they’re supported.
Can you have multiple sidekicks at once?
No, you can only have one active sidekick at a time. However, you can own multiple sidekicks in your Locker and switch between them whenever you want. Each sidekick maintains its own customization settings and earned accessories.
What This Means for Fortnite’s Future
The Paramount collaboration signals that Epic Games is committed to expanding the sidekick feature beyond its initial launch. If this partnership proves successful, we could see sidekicks from other major entertainment companies like Disney, Warner Bros, or Universal. The possibilities are essentially endless, especially considering Fortnite’s history of creative crossovers.
For now, players will need to wait for official confirmation from Epic Games. The company typically doesn’t comment on data miner discoveries, so the first real announcement might come through social media teasers or in-game hints. Keep an eye on Fortnite’s official channels and trusted leakers for updates as Chapter 7 approaches. Whether you’re a SpongeBob superfan or a Ninja Turtles enthusiast, the upcoming Paramount sidekicks could give you a whole new way to show off your favorite characters while dropping into the battle royale.