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Home Blog

‘Wild Thornberrys’ Creator Steve Pepoon Dies Age 68

Steve Pepoon, an accomplished TV comedy writer who will be remembered in animation circles for co-creating the hit Nickelodeon show The Wild Thornberrys, died suddenly May 3 outside his home in Paola, Kansas. His wife, Mary Stephenson, told the press that the Emmy-winning writer had been in treatment for a heart condition (cardiac amyloidosis) for the past two years.

Born May 19, 1956 in Kansas City, Missouri, Pepoon’s family relocated to Paola when he was two years old. He wrote for his high school newspaper and as a teen his love of The Dick Van Dyke Show, centered on a TV comedy writer, “planted the seed of Steve’s career dream,” according to his family. Pepoon graduated from Kansas State University in 1978, and worked in a shoe store to save up for his dream-chasing move to Los Angeles in 1979. There, he wrote 35 scripts on spec while working a number of odd jobs, from flipping burgers to managing a drive-in theater.

Pepoon’s first script sale was in 1985 for an episode of Silver Spoons, which aired in 1986. The next year, his spec script for the pop culture phenom ALF was picked up, and the producers brought Pepoon on board as a writer. In the course of his three-year ALF gig, Pepoon also sold a spec script for an episode of The Simpsons — “Homer vs. Lisa: The 8th Commandment” (1991) was later submitted for and won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Animated Program.

Through the 1990s, Pepoon wrote for It’s Garry Shandling’s Show, the Ferris Bueller spin-off series, Get A Life, the Jim Henson creature sitcom Dinosaurs and, under the patronage of Tom and Roseanne Arnold, The Jackie Thomas Show, Roseanne and Tom, for which he was head writer, showrunner and a co-creator. He also played a key role in Cleghorne! and wrote for the acclaimed stop-motion primetime show The PJs.

Joining forces with producers Arlene Klasky and Gabor Csupo (of famed Nicktoons studio Klasky-Csupo) as well as collaborators from previous writers’ rooms, David Silverman and Stephen Sustarsic, Pepoon created The Wild Thornberrys, about a wildlife documentarian couple and their children who travel the world encountering incredible animals and getting into wild mishaps. The show was originally pitched as an adult-targeted toon for Fox, but was retooled for family audiences and premiered on Nickelodeon in 1998.

Thornberrys ran for five seasons, earning a Daytime Emmy nomination for children’s animation and multiple Genesis and Environmental Media Awards. The show spawned the theatrical feature The Wild Thornberrys Movie (2002) as well as a big-screen crossover, Rugrats Go Wild (2003). Pepoon also created the TV movie The Wild Thornberrys: The Origin of Donnie, focusing on the family’s adopted raised-by-orangutans son, named after Pepoon’s own nephew.

In 2009, Pepoon returned to Paola for his high school reunion, where he reconnected with Mary Stephenson — whom he had first met in kindergarten. After a whirlwind courtship, the pair married in Paola the same year, and Pepoon never returned to Hollywood. Steve and Mary shared a joyful marriage full of travel, and were known about the small Kansan city for their fantastic home holiday decorations. They also remained close with their Paola High School Class of ’74, and Pepoon was honored with the Paola Alumni Festival Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024.

Pepoon is survived by Mary; his brothers Michael and Bill; stepchildren; nieces and nephews; and five grandchildren. The family is collection contributions to establish a scholarship fund in his memory, which will support Paola High School students pursuing writing, theater or film careers.

[Sources: Hollywood Reporter, Dengel & Son memorial]

Pluto TV Celebrates “Ani-May” with Weeklong ‘Hunter X Hunter’ Marathon

Recently, free ad-supported streamer Pluto TV launched its biggest anime content refresh ever timed to the month of “Ani-May,” adding over 800 hours of programming and more than 120 feature films.

This week (through Sunday, May 18), Hunter x Hunter fans can join Gon and Killua for an epic marathon packed with action, heart and unforgettable battles, all day long on the platform’s Anime All Day channel.

Based on the manga by Yoshihiro Togashi, serialized in Shueisha’s Shonen Jump, Hunter X Hunter takes place in a world where “Hunters” travel uncharted territories seeking rare items and terrible monsters. To join these adventurers, one must pass the high-risk Hunter Examination. It’s on this perilous journey we find 12-year-old Gon Freecss, who is on a personal ques to find his father, a Hunter. Together with his newfound friends, each with their own motives to become Hunters, Gon ventures out into this dangerous, unknown world.

The anime series launched in Japan in 2011 and ran for 148 episodes. The show was produced by VAP, Nippon TV and Shueisha, with animation by Madhouse.

 

Upcoming highlights of Pluto TV’s Ani-May refresh include:

Anime All Day channel 

  • Monday, May 19 – Sunday, May 25: Buckle up for high-octane nostalgia with the Speed Racer marathon, showcasing the original Mach 5 adventures.
  • Monday, May 26 – Saturday, May 31: Step into the shadows with a full-throttle Death Note marathon — from Light’s first encounter with Ryuk to the psychological warfare with L.

 

ANIME x HIDIVE channel

  • Saturday, May 17 – Sunday, May 18: Celebrate the light-hearted charm of K-On! with an extended weekend marathon of this beloved music-themed slice-of-life series.
  • Saturday, May 24 (All Day): It’s teen angst meets romantic comedy in an all-day My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU marathon.
  • Friday, May 30 – Saturday, May 31: Prepare for tears and timeless emotion with a two-day Clannad marathon.

 

Pluto TV Anime Movies

  • Saturday, May 17 (1:00 PM – 3:30 AM): Enter the soul society with an epic Bleach movie marathon.
  • Sunday, May 18 (7:00 PM – 2:00 AM): Double the drama with a Hunter X Hunter movie double feature.
  • Saturday, May 24 – Sunday, May 25: Ninja fans, rejoice! It’s a Naruto movie weekend marathon.
  • Friday, May 30 (All Day): Travel back in time with a nostalgic 80s–90s Throwback Anime Movie Marathon.
  • Saturday, May 31 (All Day): Enjoy a double feature of classic cool with Urusei Yatsura and City Hunter movie marathons.

 

Special Spotlights

  • Yu-Gi-Oh! – Saturday, May 17 @ 4:00 PM: The duel is on with the Yu-Gi-Oh! Movie Marathon, featuring Yu-Gi-Oh! The MovieThe Dark Side of Dimensions, and Bonds Beyond Time.
  • Lupin the 3rd – Saturday, May 24 @ 4:00 PM: Heists, humor, and hijinks with a Lupin the 3rd Movie Marathon.

Animated Surfer Romance ‘In Waves’ Casts Charles Melton & Stephanie Hsu

Charles Melton (May December) and Stephanie Hsu (The Wild Robot, Everything Everywhere All at Once) have been announced as the English-language voice stars of upcoming animated feature In Waves, a romance set against the backdrop of California’s surf culture. The film, which will be presented in Annecy Festival’s Work in Progress section this year, is adapted from the award-winning graphic novel memoir by AJ Dungo.

In addition to its Annecy selection, In Waves producers/sales agents Charades (international sales) and Anonymous Content (U.S. sales) will present a promo reel to buyers at the Cannes Film Market this week.

Synopsis: AJ, a shy teenager, meets Kristen while in high school in Los Angeles. Kristen is passionate about surfing… and she’s the most beautiful person he’s ever met. They fall madly in love. As life seems to finally come together for AJ, Kristen’s life starts falling apart, shattered by illness. Together, they will fight adversity with dignity and enjoy their now-shared passion for surfing and for the ocean, but also their loyal band of friends. This is what happens when love and friendship become a wave stronger than anything.

The French-language version will star Lyna Khoudri (The French Dispatch) and Rio Vega (Deerskin), alongside Paul Kircher, Birane Ba and Gauthier Battoue.

In Waves marks the feature directorial debut of Phuong Mai Nguyen, a graduate of prestigious French animation schools Gobelins and La Poudrière. She has directed several shorts, including Chez moi, which was shortlisted by the César Academy and the Academy Awards in 2016, and she and Charlotte Cambon co-directed Silex Films’ animated series Culottées (a.k.a. Brazen: Rebel Ladies Who Rocked the World), based on Pénélope Bagieu’s comic books, which won multiple festival awards and sold to markets around the world.

The film is written by Fanny Burdino & Samuel Doux, with graphic design by Nguyen, and features an original soundtrack by Rob & Oklou. In Waves is produced by Priscilla Bertin and Judith Nora for Silex Films. Associate producers are Anonymous Content (U.S.), France 3 Cinéma, Panique! (Belgium), Charades Productions (France) and Gao Shan Pictures (France); animation production is by ADV Studios (Autour du volcan), Gao Shan Pictures, Silex Animation and Silex Films.

Dungo’s In Waves graphic novel, published by Nobrow Press (2019), was  awarded the Prix de la BD Fnac-France Inter 2020 and was an official selection at Angoulême Comics Festival 2020.

Melton is represented by CAA, 111 Media and Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole. Hsu is represented by CAA and Hanson Jacobson.

[Sources: Variety, Silex Films, Villa Albertine]

‘One Piece’ Returns to Vegas Exosphere for Licensing Expo

The global hit anime franchise One Piece will illuminate Las Vegas’ skyline later this month for Licensing Expo 2025. Toei Animation revealed today its plan to spotlight the property with an encore activation on the Exosphere, the exterior of Sphere in Las Vegas, from Monday, May 19 thru Wednesday, May 21.

The activation features a specially created 90-second animation, which marked the largest One Piece display in franchise history when it first debuted in June 2024 at the Las Vegas venue, the largest spherical structure in the world, measuring 366 ft. (112 m) tall and 516 ft. (157 m) wide.

One Piece - Vegas Exosphere ©Eiichiro Oda/Shueisha, Toei Animation

One Piece is one of Toei Animation’s most popular and fastest-growing IPs that boasts a continuously expanding catalog of licensed apparel, footwear, accessories, toys, games, sporting goods, gifts & novelties, housewares, food & beverage, location-based entertainment and more. Toei Animation will be meeting with potential licensing partners for ONE PIECE and its other properties throughout Licensing Expo 2025 at its exhibit booth (#C196) in the Mandalay Bay Convention Center.

“We’re thrilled to showcase One Piece at Licensing Expo 2025 with an encore of our original activation on the Exosphere, the exterior of Sphere in Las Vegas,” said Lisa Yamatoya, Senior Director, Head of Marketing at Toei Animation Inc. “On the heels of last year’s global anniversary, One Piece continues to grow exponentially from brand marketing efforts like this—increasing its passionate fan base and driving demand for licensed merchandise and location-based entertainment. One Piece is truly a pop culture phenomenon!”

One Piece is produced by Toei Animation and based on the best-selling manga created by Eiichiro Oda. The series follows pirate Monkey D. Luffy and his Straw Hat Crew on their epic quest to find the “One Piece,” the legendary treasure of Gol D. Roger, former King of the Pirates.

Over 25 years since its Japanese TV premiere in 1999, One Piece has grown beyond the original (currently running) episodic series to encompass 15 feature films, numerous video games, a trading card game and an ever-expanding catalog of licensed merchandise and location-based entertainment.

One Piece - Vegas Exosphere ©Eiichiro Oda/Shueisha, Toei Animation

One Piece resumed its weekly series simulcast in April with new episodes from its current “Egghead Island” arc premiering every weekend.

For the latest news and information about ONE PIECE, follow Toei Animation on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, Tiktok and Threads as well as the official One Piece English YouTube channel.

First-Ever ‘CoComelon’ Film Greenlit by Moonbug & Flywheel

Moonbug Entertainment, a part of Candle Media, and Flywheel Media (The Angry Birds Movie 3) have greenlit the first-ever animated CoComelon feature film, marking a major milestone for the global kids’ brand. Fans will follow JJ and his friends on a big screen adventure when the film premieres in theaters in 2027.

The CG animated film will be produced by Moonbug Entertainment, Flywheel Media, Prime Focus Studios (The Garfield Movie) and DreamWorks Animation (The Wild Robot), with animation by the DNEG Group (That Christmas), and distributed by Universal Pictures.

CoComelon is a children’s series designed to teach life skills through music —  from trying new veggies to winding down for bed. Created with input from child development experts, the hit series reaches audiences in over 80 countries, available in more than 20 languages, with more than 4 billion average monthly views on YouTube. CoComelon includes spin-offs like Netflix’s CoComelon Lane, Cody Time, Nina’s Familia and JJ’s Animal Time. Since joining Moonbug Entertainment in 2020, the franchise has expanded into consumer products, streaming music, games and live entertainment.

Apple TV+ Announces New Animated Pre-K Series ‘Not a Box’

Apple TV+ has announced an all-new animated preschool series, Not a Box, premiering globally on Friday, June 13. Celebrating the joys of imagination, the series is inspired by the beloved, award-winning children’s picture book of the same name by The New York Times bestselling author/illustrator Antoinette Portis.

Logline: Get creative with bright-eyed bunny Riley! With just one cardboard box, Riley imagines magical worlds — full of new friends and fantastic adventures.

Voice starring Isabel Birch as Riley and Ian James Corlett (Dragon Ball Z) as Adult, the eight-episode series invites young viewers and their families to step into a rich world of environments, characters and encounters that is as limitless as their imaginations to create, explore and celebrate.

Not a Box is produced by Dete Meserve’s Silver Creek Falls Entertainment with Meserve serving as executive producer. The series is written and co-executive produced by Emmy Award winner Michael Rabb. The animation is produced by Passion Pictures with executive producers Debbie Crosscup and Andrew Ruhemann, and directed by Siri Melchior. Additional executive producers include Harry Lowell for Nitelite Pictures, and Angus Wall and Linda Carlson for Rock Paper Scissors.

Kate Robinson, director of the Sir Ken Robinson Foundation and daughter of Sir Ken Robinson, serves as the imagination and creativity expert on the series through Apple TV+’s changemakers initiative. Robinson co-authored her late father’s manifesto, Imagine if… Creating a Future for Us All, which celebrates the power of imagination to create and recreate the world.

You can read our interview with show creator and exec producer Michael Rabb in the next issue of Animation Magazine (Issue No. 350, coming first week in June).

Not a Box [Apple TV+]

‘Trollhunters’ Writer Aaron Waltke Tapped as ‘Wings of Fire’ Showrunner

Aaron Waltke — a Daytime Emmy-winning writer-director-producer known for his work on Guillermo del Toro’s Tales of Arcadia series Trollhunters and Wizards, as well as Star Trek: Prodigy — has been appointed the showrunner for the animated series adaptation of Tui T. Sutherland’s bestselling fantasy novel series Wings of Fire. 

The project was initially set up at Netflix as a 10-episode series in 202, from Warner Bros. Television and set to be executive produced by Ava DuVernay. but was dropped from the streamer’s slate in 2022. Amazon MGM Studios picked up Wings of Fire for its animation development slate in 2024 and announced an all-new creative team under executive producer Marc Resteghini (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Jack Ryan), former head of series for then-Amazon Studios, through Jack Tar Productions and its overall deal with Amazon MGM.

The logline for the upcoming Prime Video series reads: Five young dragons have been raised in secret, destined by prophecy to end a terrible war. But when one of their own is threatened, they decide to escape and find their own fate — saving themselves and the rest of their world along the way.

Launched in 2012 by Scholastic, the Wings of Fire franchise comprises 15 novels as well as supplementary books and a graphic novel version. The books have sold more than 27 million copies worldwide, landing at No. 1 on best-seller lists for USA Today and New York Times. 

Watke most recently served as a staff writer and co-executive producer on Star Trek: Prodigy, the franchise’s first-ever animated series aimed at kids. He won a Daytime Emmy Award for writing on Trollhunters in 2018, as well as a second nomination the following year. He wrote and worked on the story for the follow-up mini-series Wizards. His animation credits also include story editor and writer on Unikitty!

[Source: Variety]

Watch: ‘Death Does Not Exist’ First Look Revealed ahead of Cannes Directors’ Fortnight

Cinephiles today got their first look at Death Does Not Exist (La Mort n’existe pas), the latest hand-drawn feature from celebrated Canadian filmmaker Félix Dufour-Laperrière (Archipelago, Ville Neuve, Transatlantic). The animated drama will make its world premiere during the Cannes Directors’ Fortnight, a non-competitive, independent sidebar to the Cannes Film Festival, and is slated to screen in competition at Annecy in June.

The film follows a political activist named Hélène, who after a failed armed attack on the wealthy landowners of a luxurious villa flees into the forest, where metamorphoses and great upheavals disrupt the natural order. When one of her collaborators catches up with her, Hélène must reconsider whether or not to join in the violent attack — and decide how far she is willing to compromise one belief for another.

Dufour-Laperrière told Deadline, which premiered the new clip: “It’s a story about radicality, with all its contradictions, its hopes, its dead ends. A story born from deep anger, from overwhelming desires that flare up to try and shake the world into motion – only to collide with the limits of their own actions, and their own internal tensions. The characters come to realize a clear, sometimes irreconcilable opposition: the impossibility of violence, and the impossibility of the status quo.”

Death Does Not Exist screened as Work-in-Progress at the 2024 Annecy Festival (where Dufour-Laperrière won a Jury Distinction in the Contrechamp competition for Archipelago in 2021). The film is produced by Nicolas & Felix Dufour-Laperrière for Embuscade Films and Emmanuel-Alain Raynal and Pierre Baussaron for Miyu Productions.

The film will be released theatrically by UFO Distribution in France and by Maison 4:3 in Canada. International rights are handled by Brussels-based Best Friend Forever.

You can read Animation Magazine’s interview with the acclaimed director of the movie in the upcoming Annecy issue (No. 350) of the magazine next month.

‘Gundam’ Returns to Anime Expo This Summer with Live Event & Creator Q&A

Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX kv

Bandai Namco Filmworks Inc. announced today that the latest installment in the Gundam series, Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX— a first-ever collaboration between studio khara and Sunrise — will participate in Anime Expo 2025 (anime-expo.org), North America’s largest anime convention. AX 2025 will be held July 3-6 at the Los Angeles Convention CEnter.

Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning-, a theatrical film composed of re-edited episodes of the Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX series that premiered in February of this year, became the highest-grossing Gundam title in U.S. box office history, earning $1.03 million and attracting more than 76,000 viewers to theaters. Now, the breakout film lands in Los Angeles for a special event taking place at the Peacock Theater during Anime Expo 2025 on Thursday, July 3.

The event will feature a screening of the theatrical Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning- film followed by a talk session with key creative staff. Scheduled panelists include Kazuya Tsurumaki (director), Yoji Enokido (series supervisor and screenwriter), Tomoyo Kurosawa (voice actor of Amate Yuzuriha/Machu) and Naohiro Ogata (Gundam Executive Producer from Bandai Namco Filmworks Inc.). Fans will also be treated to giveaways and a live music performance

Bandai Namco Filmworks Inc. will also attend Japan Expo 2025 (japan-expo-france.jp), Europe’s largest celebration of Japanese culture, held at the Paris-Nord Villepinte Exhibition Center from Thursday, July 3 to Sunday, July 6. As part of a special showcase, there will be a movie screening of Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning- with director Kazuya Tsurumaki, series supervisor and screenwriter Yoji Enokido, and design/storyboard artist Mahiro Maeda taking the stage to share behind-the-scenes insights into the making of the series and explore the evolving world of Gundam.

‘Miraculous’ Animated Universe Expands with 2D Chibi Comedy Series

Miraculous Corp — the joint venture between Mediawan and ZAGannounces the global rollout of Miraculous Chibi, a fast-paced 2D-animated “chibi-style” comedy series (52 x 3′) that reimagines the Miraculous universe through a non-verbal slapstick lens. Designed for digital-first audiences, particularly kids ages five to 11, Miraculous Chibi will be delivering in Q4.

The first batch of episodes are anticipated to launch Q4 2025 on the Miraculous YouTube channel, with additional episodes to roll out through 2026. Disney Branded Television has acquired the series to debut on its platforms in 2026.  France’s TFI has also acquired the series for a 2026 release.

Miraculous Chibi is a celebration of everything fans love about the brand, distilled into three-minute bursts of laughter, heart and classic cartoon fun,” said Andy Yeatman, CEO, Miraculous Corp and Global Operations. “With its visually engaging storytelling, lovable characters, and universal humor, the Miraculous Chibi series is perfect for all, where big fun comes in small packages!”

Originally introduced through 10 x 90-second teaser episodes, Miraculous Chibi has already proven a smash hit — amassing over 650 million views on YouTube and over 930,000 subscribers on the dedicated channel.

Miraculous Chibi

Synopsis: The new Miraculous Chibi series brings Ladybug, Cat Noir, and friends, into a dynamic, action-packed world filled with cute comedic adventure and misguided missions, capturing the magic of Miraculous in a whole new way!

Each episode spotlights one of our beloved heroes, obsessively following a crazy goal as they navigate hilarious obstacles in the heart of beautiful Parisian locations — from Marinette’s family bakery, along the Champs-Elysee, to the top of the Eiffel Tower — with expressive animation, emoji-style effects, and a whirlwind of comedic chaos. Whether its Cat Noir’s overconfidence gone wrong, Marinette’s adorably awkward disasters, or a self-driving car with a mind of its own, each Chibi short is designed to delight  — one comedic misadventure at a time.

“In the classic spirit of Miraculous, these comic tales of missed connections, miscommunication, and persistent pursuit are dialed up to their maximum fun in a whirlwind of cute comedic mishaps,” added Heath Kenny, Chief Content Officer, Miraculous Corp. “It’s designed to be accessible, hilarious, and universally relatable, whether you’ve followed Ladybug and Cat Noir for years or are discovering them for the first time.”

The Miraculous brand has a massive global digital ecosystem, garnering over 46 billion views on YouTube, with more than 43 million subscribers across 22 localized channels in 20 languages. On TikTok, the brand boasts more than 1 billion views, 7 million followers, and over 190 million likes. Across all platforms — including YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, X and TikTok — Miraculous has built a community of more than 50 million followers. In the gaming space, Miraculous became the first-ever TV franchise to launch on Roblox, where it has now accumulated over 830 million plays. The official Miraculous app has also surpassed 250 million downloads worldwide.

FMX Wraps Up an Inspiring 2025 Event, On Demand Now Available

Over four days, the FMX 2025 On Site program welcomed approximately 270 speakers and 3.200 participants to experience the “Rhythm of Chance” through energizing presentations, workshops and networking events. This year’s theme celebrated the wealth of innovations and the spirit of invention in VFX, animation and digital media.

Arne Braun, State Secretary at the Ministry of Science, Research and Arts of Baden-Wuerttemberg, expressed his admiration for the “‘invisible heroes’ behind the scenes,” praising the film and media industry for being an “industry of the future.”

“It was amazing to be back at FMX, immersed in the vibrant energy that brings hundreds of companies and creative professionals to the Haus der Wirtschaft,” said Braun. “I am especially pleased, FMX has been able to welcome Paul Debevec as Program Chair. His groundbreaking work has set new standards and demonstrates how science and art can go hand in hand.”

Among the program highlights: Paul Debevec gave an inspiring keynote on virtual lighting, the Fortiche presentation on stylized animation in Arcane was filled to capacity, the Stuttgart-based studio Accenture Song VFX demonstrated how to create a space station for Dune: Prophecy, and Ed Hooks after his masterclass sold all the copies of the latest edition of his classic book Acting for Animators. These were just a few of around 200 sessions touching all areas of digital film and media creation.

“Cross-industry and cross-technology networking and better visibility of our creative potential is key to success,” said Michael Kleiner, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labour and Tourism. “Our aim is to make the great creative and technology events as well as the players here even more visible and to link them even more closely together — and FMX and Filmakademie are an important part of it.”

Following the On Site event, FMX On Demand has started. Much of the conference content will be available until June 10, indicated by turquoise “VOD” flags in the Program Schedule. All Press Pass holders can access FMX On Demand by clicking on a presentation, which will open a a video player automatically. Questions about accessing FMX On Demand can be answered by the On Demand Guide.

“It’s been a big FMX, absolutely fabulous!” says FMX Conference Chair Jan Pinkava. “We have had some of the best speakers and panels and sessions I have actually ever witnessed — although I didn’t get to see them all because there were so many good ones. “Thank you for being here, see you next year!”

Check out highlights of FMX 2025 in this year’s reel.

 

Kedoo Greenlights Season 2 of ‘Sonya From Toastville’

Today, international content, production and distribution company Kedoo Entertainment has officially greenlit a second season of its fast-rising kids animation hit Sonya From Toastville. The series is co-produced by Lakeside Animation and Studio Metrafilms, and distributed by Kedoo Entertainment.

Launched in February 2024, season one of Sonya From Toastville has already surpassed 200 million views on YouTube.  Building on its proven market success and as part of its global strategy, the new season will now be available exclusively for TV broadcasters and streaming platforms across international markets.

Sonya From Toastville [Kedoo Entertainment]

Synopsis: The series follows Sonya, a 10-year-old girl who discovers that her kitchen breadbox is a magical portal. By arranging magnets in a special way, she unlocks access to Toastville, a fantastical city on the distant planet Toastland, inhabited by the whimsical Toastians and threatened by the mischievous Crumbles.

Created for children aged six to nine, each of the 26 x 11′ episodes explores Sonya’s adventures alongside her quirky friends, blending humor, heart and imaginative storytelling.

Sonya From Toastville [Kedoo Entertainment]

“Kedoo continues to invest in, and create, great content for kids. And despite a challenging market, we believe there is still room for brilliant and unique IP such as Sonya From Toastville,” said Olivier Bernard, COO & Co-Founder of Kedoo. “Sonya combines the incredible ingredients kids love: great storytelling and interesting, funny, and unusual characters. Through the adventures, the series demonstrates that appearances can be deceiving, and cultivates young audiences’ self-belief and resilience, as well as celebrating female empowerment.”

kedoo.com

Sonya From Toastville [Kedoo Entertainment]

‘On the Edge’ Animated Feature Taps Director Octavio Rodriguez

The upcoming animated feature On the Edge is reshaping its creative vision with the addition of acclaimed director Octavio Rodriguez (Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, Ron’s Gone Wrong, Incredibles 2, Coco) to the creative team. Studio 100 Film today unveiled a sneak peek image from the upcoming film alongside the helmer’s announcement.

On the Edge follows Donnie, a cynical but lovable Cuban solenodon, who takes on an outrageous mission: to avoid extinction by rebranding himself as a panda — one of the world’s most beloved endangered species. Alongside an eccentric band of equally overlooked animals, Donnie’s wild journey evolves into a heist-fueled, action-packed tale of identity, belonging and survival.

Balancing irreverent humor, heartfelt emotion, and kinetic action, “On the Edge” offers a family-friendly viewing experience that entertains while naturally sparking curiosity about biodiversity and conservation. The story challenges the idea that only the “cute and cuddly” are worth saving — celebrating nature’s quirky, lesser-known misfits and highlighting that every species matters.

Octavio Rodriguez, photo provided by Studio 100 Filjm“I want this film to push the boundaries of animation so our audience can fall in love with these endangered, quirky misfits. It’s a story for the underdog — about resilience, survival and finding where we truly belong,” shared Rodriguez. “As an Afro-Latino in the industry, I’ve always embraced the underdog spirit, and this film reflects that journey. Oh, and let’s not forget — there’s a high-stakes heist/kidnapping that kicks off Donnie’s mission and leads to unexpected growth and self-discovery.”

The project’s production partners are On The Edge Animation A.I.E., Able & Baker and affiliate Monkeys & Dinos, Telegael, Studio 100 International and On the Edge (The Organization). Studio 100 Film is handling world sales rights.

Studio 100 Film, who manages worldwide sales, will present the first look at the new creative direction at Marché du Film at its office apartment: 6B2 in Résidence Le Gray d’Albion, 32 bis Rue des Serbes, Cannes.

On the Edge is planned for delivery by Q4 2026, targeting children and family audiences worldwide. Los Angeles-based Viva Pictures will oversee distribution in North America.

studio100film.com

On the Edge [Studio 100 Film]

Siyah Marti & PlayBig Bring ‘Zatonya’ & Upcoming ‘Zero Waste Busters’ to Cannes

At this year’s Marché du Film in Cannes, Turkish animation studio Siyah Marti (animasyon.siyahmarti.com), together with French film sales outfit PlayBig (playbigfilm.com), will present the market screening of the animated family feature Zatonya as well as the first-look promo presentation of the upcoming eco-comedy Zero Waste Busters.

The market screening of Zatonya will take place on Friday, May 16 at 6:15 PM at Palais I, introducing global buyers to a hilarious and heartwarming 3D adventure that blends fantasy, slapstick comedy, and satire. The film follows the eccentric inventor Sırrı and the quirky residents of the town of Zatonya, who are accidentally transported into a dazzling futuristic world where chaos, invention, and laughter collide.

Zero Waste Busters

Cannes buyers will get an exclusive promo preview of Zero Waste Busters — a high-energy, eco-conscious animated adventure led by three unlikely heroes on a remote island: Moni, Dako and Hipo. As they battle pollution and the nefarious schemes of villainous businessman Baron Buzzard, this fun and timely film aims to inspire young audiences around the world with humor, action and a strong environmental message. The full feature is slated for release in November 2025.

PlayBig has been appointed international sales agent for both titles, as well as for the entire catalog of Siyah Martı Animation Studios, including the acclaimed Nasreddin Hodja series, Captain Pengu and upcoming titles from the T.A.Y. historical franchise.

“We are thrilled to be representing the vibrant, diverse, and globally relevant slate from Siyah Martı,” said Frédéric Puech, Founder of PlayBig. “From wild comedies to thought- provoking eco-adventures, these films strike a rare balance between cultural authenticity, global themes, and pure entertainment.”

Zatonya
Zatonya

Both films are produced in Türkiye by family content-focused Siyah Martı Animation Studios, headed by producer-director Nurullah Yenihan. Directed by Mustfa H. Ozturk, Zatonya was released locally by TME Films in February 2025, earning ₺6,485,505 across 7 weeks (~$170.5K USD), placing it in the top 50 films released in Türkiye this year so far.

Distributors and buyers interested in attending the Zatonya screening or viewing Zero Waste Busters materials are encouraged to contact PlayBig for screening access and further information.

8th Ibero-American Animation Quirino Awards Reveal Winners

Productions from Spain, Brazil and Uruguay were recognized in the three main categories of the 8th Ibero-American Animation Quirino Awards, created to celebrate animated works from this 23-country region. Spain’s Black Butterflies by David Baute won Best Feature Film, while Brazil’s Jorel’s Brother took home Best Series, and Uruguay’s Capybaras, by Alfredo Soderguit claimed Best Short Film. The awards gala took place today in La Laguna, Tenerife, and was streamed online worldwide.

With a strong background in documentary filmmaking, Tenerife-born director Baute makes his animation debut with Black Butterflies, a feature film that follows three women from very different parts of the world that are forced to migrate due to the climate crisis. The film draws from Baute’s 2020 documentary Éxodo climático, and has been honored at the Goya and Platino Awards. Co-written by Baute and Yaiza Berrocal, the Quirino’s Best Feature Film is a production by Spain’s Ikiru Films and Tinglado Film (based in Tenerife), alongside Panama’s Anangu Grup.

After winning Best Series at the 2019 Quirino Awards, Brazilian cartoon Jorel’s Brother was again recognized for its fifth season. Created by Juliano Enrico and produced by the Rio de Janeiro-based Copa Studio together with Warner Bros. Discovery, the series is about an extremely creative boy navigating pre-adolescence in the shadow of his older brother Jorel’s popularity.

In Capybaras, winner of the Quirino Award for Best Short Film, Uruguayan writer and director Alfredo Soderguit talks about prejudice and friendship through a story starring a family of capybaras forced to leave their habitat because of hunters. The work is an adaptation of the book of the same name written and illustrated by the director, known in the world of animation for Anina (2013) and for the series Dos pajaritos, a finalist in the 2022 Quirino Awards.

This year’s jury was made up of U.S. producer Ben Kalina of Titmouse studio, Spanish researcher and programmer Carolina López Caballero, children’s content acquisitions executive at Swedish public broadcaster SVT Helena Nylander, Brazilian animation director, screenwriter and animator Daniel Bruson, and CEO of French distributor and producer Prime Entertainment Group Leyla Formoso.

The 26 finalists were chosen from 263 entries, 10 percent more than the previous year. Throughout its eight editions, the Quirino Awards have contributed to the creation of a common space for animation in the Ibero-American region, positioning its headquarters, the island of Tenerife, as a reference and meeting point for the sector.

Gala Pemios Quirino 2025 - La Liga de la animacion Iberoamericana (1)

During the gala, Lope Afonso, Vice President of the Tenerife Council and Minister for Tourism, External Action and Institutional Relations, announced the launch of Quirino Lab, a training and discussion space to be held in November 2025.

“With this initiative we intend to shed light on the issues that most concern Ibero-American executive producers. After a process of analysis and listening to the sector, Tenerife will host the evolution of the original concept of the Quirino Residency, presented last year; a project that now incorporates the promotion of collective work and adds the contributions that have emerged from the successful Futures Lab held in this edition of the Quirino Awards,” said Afonso. This new space has the support of the Tenerife Council through Tenerife Tourism and the Tenerife Film Commission. More details about the registration process will be announced next June during the Annecy Animation Festival.

The Quirino Awards are sponsored by the Tenerife Council through Tenerife Tourism.

Ganadores Premios Quirino 2025

8th Ibero-American Animation Quirino Awards Winners

Best Feature Film: Black Butterflies – David Baute.
Production: Ikiru Films, Tinglado Film, Anangu Grup, Tunche Films, Corporació Catalana de Mitjans Audiovisuals (Spain, Panama).

Best Series: Jorel’s Brother – Season 5 – Juliano Enrico.
Production: Copa Studio, Warner Bros Discovery (Brazil).

Best Short Film: CapybarasAlfredo Soderguit.
Production:Palermo Estudio, Autour de Minuit, Pájaro (Uruguay, France, Chile).

Best School Short Film: Adiós – José Prats.
Production: National Film and Television School (Spain, UK).

Best Commissioned Animation: 47 – Paulo Garcia, Natalia Gouvea.
Production: Zombie Studio (Brazil).

Best Music Video: “My Way” – Jesica Bianchi.
Production: Rudo Company (Argentina).

Best Video Game Animation: Neva – Developed by: Nomada Studio (Spain).

Best Visual Development: 47 – Paulo Garcia, Natalia Gouvea. Production: Zombie Studio (Brazil).

Best Animation Design: Paradise Buffet – Santi Amézqueta, Héctor Zafra.
Production: Hampa Studio, WKND, DISNOSC (Spain, France).

Best Sound Design & Original Music: Gilbert – Alejandro Salueña García, Arturo Lacal Ruiz, Jordi Jiménez Xiberta.
Production: Agencia Freak (Spain).

 


premiosquirino.org

FOX Orders More Seasons of ‘Grimsburg,’ ‘Krapopolis’ and ‘Universal Basic Guys’

Three of FOX’s popular primetime animated series — Krapopolis, Grimsburg and Universal Basic Guys have been renewed by the network. Deadline reported today that the shows, which are all animated by Fox-owned Bento Box Entertainment, will join the broadcaster’s other long-running shows — Bob’s Burgers, Family Guy, The Simpsons and American Dad, which were all renewed for four-season pickups in April. Seth MacFarlane’s American Dad isi returning to its original home at FOX, after airing on TBS for more than a decade.

Karapopolis will end its second season on FOX later this month. The show, which is created by Dan Harmon, premiered on FOX in Sept. 2023. Set in ancient Greece, it follows the misadventures of a group of gods, monsters and regular humans. The new pickup will take it through its fifth season.

Freshman show Universal Basic Guys, which is created by brothers Adam and Craig Malamut had already been greenlit for a second season and will now get a third season. The Jon Hamm series, Grimsburg, which is wrapping its second season on FOX, has also been picked up for a third season.

However, the future is still hazy for The Great North, which is now in its fifth season on the network. The show, which stars Nick Offerman, Jenny Slate and Will Forte, is produced and created by Lizzie Molyneux-Logelin, Wendy Molyneux and Minty Lewis. Disney TV Studios’ president Eric Schrier told Deadline recently, that the show is still under consideration. “I don’t think FOX has made a final determination on it; it’s another show that we really love. It’d be great for it to continue, but I understand if they’re not able to,” he said.

Source: Deadline.com

 

Vancouver Animation School to Grant 50% Scholarships for LatAm Digital Arts Students

Vancouver Animation School (VANAS), the largest educational institution of its kind in Canada, is granting more than 80 scholarships to Latin American residents. Those interested in animation, visual effects and video games can apply. The institution will give 50% Scholarships for LatAm Digital Arts Students for live online programs.

Before this Summer Session, VANAS will host a free information session. The online event will take place on May 24 at 11 AM Pacific Time and will be broadcasted live on the Zoom platform.

Applicants must reside in a Latin American country and hold citizenship from a LatAm nation. Applicants who confirm their ability to cover the reduced tuition and remaining balance will be considered for the scholarships. Applicants must submit five pieces of artwork relevant to their program of interest (from 2D, 3D Animation, Production Management, Virtual Reality, etc.). Portfolios must showcase original work — AI-generated artwork will not be accepted. Scholarships are given on a first-come, first-serve fashion. LatAm nationals residing outside of Latin America (e.g., a Mexican citizen living in the U.S.A.) are not eligible.

“We at VANAS always fostered creativity anywhere in the world. This is a unique opportunity for talents in Latin America to advance their career in the animation and visual effects industry. Anyone there can apply and have access to Canadian education,” says Mario Pochat, CEO and founder of VANAS.

Founded in 2010, Vancouver Animation School is a fully accredited online school offering advanced programs for the animation, visual effects, and video game industries. The company offers vocational certificates, diplomas, and university pathways in a variety of art and technology, media, and design fields. In 2013, VANAS became the first 100% online institution to be fully accredited in Canada and opened its U.S.A. Branch in 2021. The institution frequently offers free tutorials on its YouTube channel.

VANAS | 50% Scholarships for LATAM Digital Arts Students – 2025
Summer Session: June 30, 2025 (Submission Deadline: June 9, 2025)
Register Now using this link
Submit your portfolio and required documentation using this form.

Live Webinar: 50% Scholarships for LatAm Digital Arts Students
Free | On the Zoom platform
May 24 at 11 AM Pacific Time | Application link
Official site: www.vanas.ca/en/events/scholarships-in-digital-arts-2025 #VANAS Promo – Becas Latinoamerica: #animación #efectos #videojuegos

Scholarships Available:

  • 2D Animation Diploma – 5 scholarships (50% each)
  • 3D Animation Diploma – 6 scholarships (50% each)
  • 3D Modeling Diploma – 7 scholarships (50% each)
  • Animated Short Film Diploma – 9 scholarships (50% each)
  • Concept Art Diploma – 4 scholarships (50% each)
  • Digital Matte Painting Diploma – 9 scholarships (50% each)
  • Effects Animation Diploma – 8 scholarships (50% each)
  • Esports Development Diploma – 10 scholarships (50% each)
  • Production Management Diploma – 7 scholarships (50% each)
  • Video Game Design Diploma – 8 scholarships (50% each)
  • Virtual Reality Diploma – 10 scholarships (50% each)

All Aboard for Thomas & Friends’ 80th Anniversary Celebrations!

Thomas & Friends announced today its kickoff to celebrate its 80th anniversary! Since its debut in 1945, the animated series has delighted audiences worldwide, and today the brand is unveiling unreleased footage, a new podcast and a chance for fans to own historic memorabilia to commemorate the brand’s legacy and rich heritage.

For the first time ever, Mattel is releasing the original, never-before-seen 1983 pilot episode of the classic model series, Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends, on YouTube. By meticulously piecing together 40-year-old 35mm film trims, the Thomas & Friends content team has taken footage from the first test shoot to rebuild and digitize both the picture and sound to give fans a brand new look at the episode that started it all. Mike O’Donnell, the 1984-2003 series composer, also created a new bespoke music arrangement for this special episode.

The episode features the classic model trains and the never-before-heard voiceover by legendary musician, Ringo Starr. Starr was the first of many notable storytellers to join the show, paving the way for future celebrity narrators.

“For 80 years, the Thomas & Friends brand has brought joy to generations, sharing timeless stories and valuable life lessons,” said Roberto Stanichi, EVP Hot Wheels and Global Head of Vehicles & Building Sets at Mattel. “As we celebrate this momentous year, we’re unveiling 40-year-old footage and newly uncovered stories from the vault for the first time ever, offering longtime fans and new audiences the chance to reconnect with the beloved adventures of Thomas & Friends in new and nostalgic ways.”

Building on the Thomas & Friends Storytime podcast, the brand is launching new episodes weekly beginning May 12, each centered around key themes from Thomas’ 80-year history, such as friendship and teamwork. Each episode will be complemented with a full retelling of a classic Thomas story. Some of the featured guests will be Andrew Brenner, one of the many head writers; Ian McCue, series producer; and family members of the Reverend Wilbert Awdry’s, creator of Thomas the Tank Engine: Christopher Awdry, Richard Awdry, Veronica Chambers, Mark Chambers and Claire Chambers, whom have all played pivotal roles in shaping the franchise. New episodes will be released weekly on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, or wherever fans listen to podcasts.

Thomas and Friends 80th auction

The celebrate 80 years of entertaining generations, the Thomas & Friends franchise in partnership with auction house Propstore, is also giving fans a rare chance to own original pieces from the brands history, including signed items by celebrity friends, original artwork and props from the iconic stop-motion series that first aired in 1984. Also included in the auction are one-of-a-kind pieces signed by iconic British actors who have voiced Thomas & Friends characters throughout the years, including Olivia Colman, Eddie Redmayne and Hugh Bonneville.

Mattel U.K. will pay all net proceeds of all sums collected under the auction to The National Autistic Society, the UK.’s leading charity that provides support, guidance and advice for autistic people and their families. The global auction opens for registration on May 8, with bidding live from May 12 to May 28. More details can be found here.

Global celebrations for the Thomas & Friends 80th anniversary continue throughout the year with new podcast episodes, all-new book titles, exciting new partnerships and continued fun with Day Out with Thomas across the globe.

For more information on Thomas & Friends, visit Thomasandfriends.com and receive the latest updates on their anniversary celebrations by following the brand on InstagramFacebook and YouTube.

The excitement doesn’t stop here! In 2026, Thomas & Friends is ready for a thrilling new journey that is set to delight fans old and new.

[Source: BusinessWire]

Paper Owl Films’ ‘Lí Ban’ Greenlit for Season 2

Belfast-based independent producer Paper Owl Films has been given the greenlight to produce a second season of its fast-paced Celtic-inspired adventure anime series Lí Ban. Commissioned by Cúla4/TG4 in Ireland and S4C in the Welsh language, the series is being made with funding support from Coimisiún na Meán, as well as Northern Ireland Screen’s Screen Fund and Irish Language Broadcast Fund, and is being distributed internationally by Aardman.

“We are so thankful for the continued support from our partners which is enabling us to make a new series of Lí Ban, telling ancient Celtic stories that resonate with children worldwide,” said Gráinne McGuinness, Creative Director at Paper Owl Films. “The international popularity of anime and fantasy storytelling allows us to tell Lí Ban’s coming of age story for a modern audience and her struggle to find out who she is in the world is as real for today’s kids as it was for her centuries ago.”

The new 13 x 11′ episodes are aimed at children aged seven to nine and the whole family, as they follow Lí Ban’s quest for answers in an ancient world of gods and monsters. The series features Sadbh Breathnach as the voice of Lí Ban and Jude Petticrew as the voice of Con.

Season 2 finds Lí Ban and Con settled in Manannán’s kingdom, getting to know Morveren, Dylan, Manannán and Bíreog better but Lí Ban’s wish to regain the human side of herself is never far from the surface.

Lí Ban and Con overhear that Mídenn is still alive, imprisoned by the evil Balor on an island in otherworldly Annwn. Determined to save him from Balor’s clutches, they embark upon a quest to free the druid. But the way into Annwn is not a straightforward one. They seek help from the great Sorceress Ceridwen, and meet young Tali, her son, who befriends them and joins them in their mission.

Fantastical heroes, legendary villains and a reality that bends around Celtic magic remain at the heart of the new season. The tales are some of the wildest ever passed down the Celtic generations, with origins as old as the lands and shores that shaped it.

“The TG4 & Cúla4 teams are delighted that Series 2 of this wonderful series has now been greenlit,” said Siobhán Ní Bhrádaigh Commissioning Editor & Acquisitions Executive, Children’s Content TG4. “We look forward to working alongside the amazing creatives at Paper Owl, S4C and Aardman once again and to bringing more stories of Lí Ban and friends to life. We’re very grateful to the Irish Language Broadcast Fund, Northern Ireland Screen and to Coimisiún na Meán for supporting this project.”

Áine Walsh, Head of the Irish Language Broadcast Fund at Northern Ireland Screen, added, “Supporting kids’ content that puts the Ulster dialect of Irish to the fore is a key priority for the Fund and we’re delighted that there will be a second series of this original Irish language animation available for our young viewers. We look forward to following Lí Ban’s new adventures across the Celtic countries.”

paperowlfilms.com | aardman.com/distribution

Li Ban

HarperCollins Prod. & Hobie Films Adapting ‘The Trumpet of the Swan’ to Animated Feature

David Hoberman (Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue RangersWonder) of Hobie Films and Caroline Fraser of HarperCollins Productions (Carmen SandiegoThe Oregon Trail) have announced the studios will produce an animated feature based on the children’s book The Trumpet of the Swan by E. B. White, with David Guion and Michael Handelman attached to write. Julie Meschko of Hobie Films will executive produce.

First published in 1970, The Trumpet of the Swan has sold 10 million copies worldwide, and has never gone out of print. The story begins on a beautiful pond deep in the forest, where a trumpeter swan named Louis is born without a voice. He can’t communicate with his family or tell the radiant young swan, Serena, that he’s fallen madly in love with her. When his father steals a trumpet to help him, it changes Louis’s life forever. Aided by a boy named Sam, Louis sets off on a musical odyssey across America to clear his father’s name, win his true love’s heart, become a world-famous musician and find his voice at last.

The Trumpet of the Swan is one of the most powerful stories ever written about a character with a disability who learns that what makes them different makes them extraordinary,” said Fraser. “The story will take audiences on a breathtaking visual and musical journey as this beloved character finds his voice.”

Hoberman added, “I’m delighted to partner with HarperCollins Productions and Guion and Handelman in bringing E. B. White’s beautiful, elegant and touching story to the screen.”

One of the most celebrated English-language writers of all time, White was a prolific and accomplished essayist who won numerous accolades, including the National Medal for Literature, a special Pulitzer Prize citation, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His first book for children, Stuart Little, was published in 1945, followed by Charlotte’s Web, which won a Newbery Honor in 1953, and The Trumpet of the Swan, published in 1970. White is also renowned for The Elements of Style, written with William Strunk, Jr.

The writing and producing teams for The Trumpet of the Swan are currently collaborating on The Mouse and the Motorcycle, a live-action/CGI hybrid set up at Amazon MGM Studios, based on the series of books by Beverly Cleary.

Guion and Handelman are known for their work on family features including Netflix’s fantasy adventure Slumberland starring Jason Momoa, as well as Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb and the Paul Rudd–Steve Carell comedy Dinner for Schmucks.

Hobie Films is represented by WME. Guion and Handelman are repped by UTA. David Wienir represents HarperCollins Productions. The E. B. White estate is represented by CAA.