Independent content creation, distribution and licensing company Epic Story Media Inc. (ESM) and CBC Kids, the children’s programming division of Canada’s national public broadcaster, will be producing Hop, the upcoming new preschool comedy series from the c Marc Brown, the acclaimed author and creator of Arthur. The series, produced by Epic Story Media and animated by Loomi Animation, was greenlit earlier this year by Max with CBC Kids now joining as a commissioning broadcaster. Epic Story Media will be presenting the series and screening the first episode at MIP Junior and MIPCOM This week.
Hop is Brown’s first TV series since Arthur’s amazing 25-year run, where he began telling children’s stories. Co-creators and fellow alums, Peter K. Hirsch and Tolon Brown, are joining Marc in bringing his beloved children’s book illustrations to life with Hop. Epic has engaged RespectAbility – the esteemed advocacy nonprofit organization fighting stigma and advancing opportunity for people with disabilities – to consult on the series.
Hop follows an eclectic group of besties whose comedic adventures teach preschoolers about embracing their own uniqueness. Led by Hop, an enthusiastic, empathetic frog with one leg shorter than the other, he and his quirky friends address kid-relatable problems with a healthy dose of laughter, silliness, and adventure.
Set in the aspirational community of Fair Village, every episode is grounded in emotional reality but soars into the world of fantasy, populated by dragons, trolls, talking banjos, and magic crayons. With a gentle balance of humor and heart, our heroes go on fun escapades to discover that they can overcome any obstacle with perseverance, creativity, and teamwork. Together, they show us the power of friendship and kindness as they navigate the mud puddles of life.
Ken Faier, El Presidente and Founder of Epic Story Media, said: “As we gear up for MIPCOM, we’re excited to once again be bringing an engaging, vibrant and varied slate of shows from leading creators, which each offer something unique for the whole family to enjoy. Hop is already attracting a great deal of attention from the international market thanks to Marc and the heavyweight creative team behind the show, and it’s fantastic to now welcome CBC to this heartwarming and inclusive series.”
This series is slated to premiere in the second quarter of 2024.
