VGI Dogs Fred Basset Animated Series
By rdemott2
Created 08/13/2004 - 00:00
files/pictures/picture-35.jpgFred Basset, star of the famous comic strip by Alex Graham syndicated in 20 countries will star in his very own television series to be produced and distributed worldwide by VGI Entertainment Ltd.
VGI, an independent U.K. producer, distributor and licensor of children’s programming, said it is delighted to be involved in such a landmark project and will be working in close consultation with Arran, Graham’s daughter who continues to be very much involved with the daily comic strip.
“The crucial element of the series is to represent Fred’s sense of humor because that’s his trademark and what everyone recognizes,” said Stephen Corner, VGI’s chairman. “It is something we have embraced to ensure the series is faithful to Alex Graham’s original work.”
First commissioned for THE DAILY MAIL, in 1963, FRED BASSET continues to adorn the daily U.K. newspaper and also THE MAIL on Sunday, reaching over 16 million people a week in the U.K. alone. Other parts of the globe carrying the comicstrip include the U.S., South America, Australia Africa and Germany.
Fred Basset is a long-eared hound who enjoys the same creature comforts as his owners. Fred provides a continual, witty commentary on daily life, both human and canine. He also enjoys the usual doggie habits such as burying bones, frightening cats and a so far fruitless ambition to catch a rabbit.
With more than 20 countries aware of Fred’s existence, VGI believes a worldwide arena is already set for Fred’s television appearance. The licensing program is also underway. “Fred Basset is the thinking man’s dog,” says VGI’s licensing manager, Michael Gottlieb, a veteran of Warner Bros Consumer Products. “He continues to amuse generations of readers and fans of all ages will welcome the licensing of this loveable, witty hound. Fred Basset is the only ‘dog license’ you need.”
FRED BASSET joins VGI’s catalog of programming with a host of characters, which include VERY GOOD INDEED airing on U.K. television, the highly-rated SERGEANT STRIPES (BBC), the unique 2D cross fade animated series, EBB AND FLO (“Milkshake” Channel 5) and retro property, BATFINK (BBC).
