Spin Master (PAW Patrol, Sago Mini Friends) announced today the debut of a new fantasy-adventure children’s franchise, Unicorn Academy. A Netflix Original animated series, produced by Spin Master Entertainment, will transport audiences to a magical world as they follow Sophia on her journey from ordinary to extraordinary — as she discovers her destiny as a unicorn rider.
The epic tale begins with a 72-minute movie premiere event and episodic content slated for release this fall, followed by a toy line, digital game and expansive licensed consumer product rollout in 2024.
Synopsis: Unicorn Academy is the boarding school of every kid’s dreams. Located on Unicorn Island, Sophia and the rest of the freshman class must bond with a unicorn to unlock their magical powers; only then can they learn to become revered protectors of the island and its magic — all while balancing classwork and navigating new friendships.
The series is adapted from The New York Times bestselling books originated and published by Nosy Crow, written by Julie Sykes and published in North America by Penguin Random House.
“We are thrilled to invite kids to unlock the magic along with us at Unicorn Academy,” says Jennifer Dodge, Spin Master’s President of Entertainment. “Engaging characters, exciting stories and, of course, majestic unicorns with magical powers will captivate audiences of all ages. The diverse heroes from the original book series along with the powerful bond between rider and unicorn inspired us to create a vibrant, animated adaptation. Set in an enchanting world of magic and mystery, stories are brought to life with world-class animation, a cinematic score, and irresistible songs for an immersive entertainment experience.”
Building out a multiplatform franchise experience, Spin Master Entertainment has content planned through 2025, with more than 250 minutes of short and long-form content produced to date including original shorts and music videos.
“Our team has done an amazing job of bringing the magic of Unicorn Academy across all play patterns,” says Max Rangel, Spin Master’s Global President and CEO. “We want to be where kids are; whether it’s in toy boxes, on their TV screens or on digital devices, Unicorn Academy will be there to ignite, engage and inspire new fans. Kids are going to fall in love with the experience of connecting with the characters and entering the world of Unicorn Island. This is our biggest production to date because we truly believe this will resonate with a generation of kids on various play platforms.”
Spin Master’s latest franchise will serve as a catalyst for the established kids’ brand co. to create innovative toys, digital games and a rich marketplace of licensing opportunities for the six- to nine-year-old core fanbase, including an official companion tie-in novelization as the first title to be published and sold internationally by Nosy Crow.
