Sixty-one years since his TV debut, classic character Noddy is set to return in a new CG-animated series, Noddy, Toyland Detective. It will premier next spring on France 5’s Zouzous preschool block.

The new 52 x 11-minute series is produced by French producer/distributor Gaumont Animation, in association with DreamWorks Animation Television, and in partnership with France Télévisions.

Noddy, Toyland Detective joins newly made-over Noddy on his adventures in Toyland. In his new detective role, Noddy will show kids how to investigate their world and make discoveries as he looks for clues to solve various mysteries.

The series also marks the first time in the property’s TV history that Noddy’s car will come alive with its own personality. Named Revs, the car races around as Noddy’s sidekick and communicates through a variety of honks and car noises.

Created by children’s author Enid Blyton, Noddy first appeared in Noddy Goes To Toyland, published in 1949. His TV debut came in 1954 with The Adventures of Noddy.

In addition to the upcoming series, Noddy’s  TV history spans more than 250 episodes that have been broadcast in more than 100 countries. Additionally, more than 250 million Noddy books have been sold worldwide.

Gaumont Animation is distributing the series in France and French-speaking Europe. DWA owns Noddy and retains global distribution rights and manages licensing and merchandising for the property.