On February 1, 2000, Cartoon Network announced a broad expansion of
CartoonNetwork.com, the network's entertainment destination on the Web.
Kicking off the expansion is a heavy increase in original, interactive
entertainment. Over the next year, CartoonNetwork.com will more than double
production of its Web Premiere Toons. In addition, CartoonNetwork.com will
triple the number of games on the site; add functionality including
shopping and advanced search functions; and create a safe community aspect.
The expansion will give Cartoon Network the opportunity to establish
enhanced television programming in which integrated content is available
simultaneously on-line and on the network. To help in the expansion,
CartoonNetwork.com will hire staff, expand their marketing and increase
their technology, research and development departments. "The expansion of
CartoonNetwork.com is another step in building a multimedia brand that
allows cartoon lovers of all ages to interact with Cartoon Network and our
characters on an entirely new level," said Cartoon Network President Betty
Cohen. "Expanding the site serves a variety of constituencies, including
consumers, who are seeking new ways to immerse themselves in our programs
and characters; marketing and advertising partners, who will have the
opportunity to reach our audience across multiple media platforms;
distributors, who will see Cartoon Network leading the way toward true
convergence; and creative talent, who will have additional opportunities to
showcase their work." This announcement comes on the heals of the recent
launch of PowerpuffGirls.com on January 31, 2000. The Web site is dedicated
to the three pint-sized superheroes Blossom, Buttercup and Bubbles. The new
site offers "The 4 Terrors of Townsville," the first interactive movie
featuring the tiny trio. The Web Premiere Toon uses footage from THE
POWERPUFF GIRLS series to allow Web users to create a new adventure for the
pint-sized heroines. PowerpuffGirls.com will also feature four Shockwave
games, video clips from favorite episodes, storyboards and production art,
as well as an e-mail service directly to the Powerpuff Girls. To celebrate,
the new site will offer free downloadable Valentine's Day cards until
February 14.
