Following the successful premieres earlier this year of THE MR. MEN SHOW on Cartoon Network in the U.S. and Five in the U.K., Chorion's broadcast partners have committed to a second season of the animated sketch show. A further 52x11 minutes are in production for broadcast in 2009, bringing the total number of episodes available to 104.
The first season of THE MR. MEN SHOW is also proving to be a hit internationally and the initial 52x11 show has just secured broadcast deals with YTV Canada, MEDIACORP Singapore and KTV South Africa. The first season has already begun airing on France 5, ABC Australia and HOP! Israel with Tiji France scheduled before year end.
There is also an extensive merchandising program in place for kids with apparel, toy, publishing and DVD partners now secured. Master toy licensee, Fisher Price is set to launch toys in the U.K. and Australia in the autumn this year with a range including collectible plush, playsets and feature plush, and global DVD partner, Sony Pictures Home Ent. will begin its international roll-out starting in the U.K. and France for the fourth quarter of 2008. A tie-in publishing program has also been agreed with Penguin Group (U.S.) and Egmont (U.K.) and Hachette (France) to launch a range of books in 2009.
Based on the original MR. MEN and LITTLE MISS books created by Roger Hargreaves, THE MR. MEN SHOW is the first animated sketch comedy for kids. It is an inspired re-imagining of this classic property, blending fast-paced physical humor and verbal wit with beloved, personality-driven characters.
Chorion's Diana Manson and Kurt Mueller along with Renegade Animation's Ashley Postlewaite and Darrell Van Citters are executive producers of THE MR. MEN SHOW together with head writers Kate Boutilier and Eryk Casemiro -- the duo behind global hits RUGRATS, WILD THORNBERRIES and RUGRATS IN PARIS. Series Producer is Adam Idelson and producers are Karen Ialacci and Peggy Regan. The series is being animated at Renegade Animation and directed by Mark Risley.
The new 52x11-minute season will again feature an ensemble cast of characters. Brand new faces such as Little Miss Magic and Little Miss Giggles will join the cast that includes the jetpack-wearing Little Miss Daredevil and favorites such as Mr. Bump, Mr. Tickle and Little Miss Sunshine. Dillydale is home to this comic assortment, where personality clashes and crazy career choices ensure that life is never dull. All of the characters have been redrawn and updated with a contemporary feel to suit the new style of animation.
