Shawn, Marlon and Keenen Ivory Wayans (IN LIVING COLOR) announced plans to launch their first children's lifestyle property THUGABOO. Based on original source material created by the Wayans Bros., THUGABOO is a broad, character-based property that takes a humorous look at the trials and tribulations of nine very different kids growing up in the inner city. Through a series of misadventures these kids learn valuable lessons: everything from the importance of friendship to never giving up on one's dreams. The Wayans will draw from their own childhood.
"We identify with youth culture and strive to tap into their funny bone by creating characters they can relate to while entertaining their parents at the same time," said Marlon Wayans.
When asked about their source of inspiration Shawn Wayans answered, "We were inspired by some of our favorite cartoons as kids, like CHARLIE BROWN and FAT ALBERT, and wanted to bring something special to a new generation."
The Wayans will support the property by producing, writing and lending their voices to a direct-to-video series that is already underway. In addition, they have signed on Playmates for master toy, The Betesh Group for softlines and Scholastic for publishing. Product will follow the launch of the video series, targeted for Holiday 2005.
"We are excited to be part of the THUGABOO team. The unique characters and their humorous adventures give THUGABOO a rare combination of kid appeal and parent approval. The Wayans have created a property that has the potential to grow into a strong multi-year franchise," stated Jill Will, Playmates' svp of marketing.
"As a parent, I think it's important for kids to have a source of entertainment that deals with life in positive and comedic ways. It's our goal to create toys, books and videos that kids will love and parents can feel good about buying," remarked Keenen Ivory Wayans.
"Inspiring kids of all ethnicities and backgrounds has always been a priority for The Betesh Group. We are excited to be partnering with the Wayans and joining the Thugaboo family. This new property promises to be entertaining and valuable to both kids and their parents," said Elliot Betesh, president of The Betesh Group.
In choosing between the numerous publishers that bid for the property, the Wayans ultimately chose Scholastic because they felt the company best understood its direction and sensibility. "We are delighted to bring the Wayans' unique brand of humor and humanity to the world of children's books through the incredible THUGABOO property," remarked Scholastic publisher Jean Feiwel.
With over thirty-five years of experience, Playmates Toys Inc., is among the most well respected and innovative marketing and distribution companies in the global toy industry. From its offices in Hong Kong, China and the U.S., Playmates designs, develops, markets and distributes its products in more than 60 countries worldwide. Playmates Toys Inc., is a division of Playmates Holdings Ltd., a Hong Kong-based company whose stock is traded on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
The Betesh Group, in business for almost 30 years, is a dynamic global consumer products company with five distinct and growing divisions: Mitzi International (Ladies Handbags and Accessories), Generation Sport (Backpacks, Sports and Travel Related Accessories), Motion Systems (Computer, Audio and Video Accessories; Stationary and Scrapbooking), Baby Boom/Interior Consumer Products (Diaper Bags; Infant and Toddler Bedding; Infant, Toddler Teen and Tween Room and Home Decor), and Toy Play (Toys and Play Tents for all ages). Headquartered in New York, The Betesh Group operates six offices in four countries with more than 800 employees worldwide.
Scholastic Corp. is the world's largest publisher and distributor of children's books. Scholastic creates quality educational and entertaining materials and products for use in school and at home, including children's books, magazines, technology-based products, teacher materials, television programming, film, videos and toys. The company distributes its products and services through a variety of channels, including proprietary school-based book clubs, school-based book fairs, and school-based and direct- to-home continuity programs; retail stores, schools, libraries, and television networks; and the company's Internet site, www.scholastic.com.
Headquartered in Beverly Hills, the Fireball Group is a licensing and brand management company, representing high profile actors, music artists, and entertainment properties in all areas of licensing, merchandising, endorsements, direct response and brand management.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
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