- Nickelodeon has picked up international rights to a CG-animated version of The Marsupilamis (pictured, 52 x 11 minutes) from Ellipse Animation and Belvision. Set to debut sometime next year, this new take on a 70-year-old character created by Belgian author André Franquin revolves around twins taking care of mysterious eggs. They have to go to great comedic lengths to keep their new Marsupilami friends hidden when the eggs eventually hatch.
- Green Gold Animation has partnered with Indian retailer EBG Group to open 300 cafés based on its kids franchise Chhota Bheem. Featuring interactive play zones, storytelling corners and licensed merch, the first location will open this December in HITEC City. The companies are jointly investing roughly US$22 million to set up this chain, according to a post from Green Gold founder Rajiv Chilaka. Chotta Bheem premiered in 2008 on WarnerMedia’s Pogo channel, and more than 200 episodes of the 2D-animated series were produced. Green Gold spun off a Mighty Little Bheem preschool series for Netflix in 2016, and last year the studio released a live-action feature film called Chhota Bheem and the Curse of the Damyaan in theaters.
- Families can now celebrate big kid milestones with Peppa Pig, thanks to a new deal between Hasbro and personalized video site Cameo. Using AI technology to replicate characters’ voices and deliver customized messages, the platform already features the Sesame Street crew in its kids suite.
- Craft Buddy in the UK has signed a multi-year, multi-territory licensing partnership with Sanrio to make and distribute arts & crafts products for Hello Kitty and Friends. Branded DIY collectibles, wearables and gifts will roll out in Europe and the Middle East next spring/summer.
- France’s HARI has signed four new European licensing agents for its CG-animated series Grizzy & the Lemmings. These new partners are: Active Merchandising (Germany), License Connection (Benelux), El Ocho (Spain and Portugal) and LIT Licensing Agency (Nordics). Retail Monster is already on board representing the IP in the US, Canada and the UK. Grizzy & The Lemmings is a slapstick comedy series following adrenaline-junkie lemmings who disturb a grizzly bear’s quiet life.
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