Saban Brands announces a licensing deal with France’s TF1 for the new animated series Julius Jr.
Los Angeles, CA -- Saban Brands’ highly anticipated new animated preschool series, Julius Jr., has been licensed to France’s #1 broadcaster, TF1. The deal was negotiated by the series’ exclusive international distributor MarVista Entertainment and includes all 26 half-hour episodes of the series. Julius Jr. will make its worldwide debut this fall on Nick Jr. in the U.S. and commence broadcast on TF1 shortly thereafter.
In addition to the broadcast distribution deal, TF1 Licences, a subsidiary of TF1, will also serve as the official licensing agent for Julius Jr. for the region.
“We knew from the buyers’ response at MIP Jr. last year, where Julius Jr. was the most screened program, that we had a hit property on our hands,” explained Fernando Szew, CEO, MarVista Entertainment. “In addition to being a fresh, bright, fun and engaging series for preschoolers, Julius Jr. also brings an established fan base and the phenomenal support of the Saban Brands’ global consumer products team.”
“We are thrilled to be working with not only TF1’s broadcast distribution department, but also with the fantastic licensing and merchandising team to build a robust Julius Jr. consumer products program in France,” said Kirk Bloomgarden, SVP of Global Consumer Products at Saban Brands.
“I am delighted by the arrival of Julius Jr. and his friendly group on TF1,” added Yann Labasque, Director of TF1’s Youth Programs. “I am sure our young audience will love their enthusiasm and the fantasy of their imaginary world.”
The series stars Julius Jr., the preschool version of the iconic Paul Frank character, Julius, who is recognizable to millions around the world. In the Julius Jr. (52 x 11’ or 26 x 30’) series, produced by Saban Brands and Brain Power Studio, Julius Jr. has a penchant for invention as well as a dream, a team and a scheme to make all his wildest imaginings come true. Together with his best pals, Worry Bear, Sheree, Clancy and Ping, they build a playhouse out of a simple cardboard box. But when they walk inside, something amazing happens as ordinary items begin to magically come to life. Every episode follows Julius Jr. and his playful friends who use their imagination and inventive nature to help each other overcome challenges big and small—teaching kids that the best inventions are the ones that help your friends!
Source: Saban Brands
Formerly Editor-in-Chief of Animation World Network, Jennifer Wolfe has worked in the Media & Entertainment industry as a writer and PR professional since 2003.
