Saturday, February 15, 2014

YTV's New March Break-Out Schedule Gives Kids An Entire Month Of New Episodes, Movie Premieres And Specials

Corus Entertainment Inc. has announced the fantastic Nickelodeon News in the following press release, from Corus Entertainment's corporate website, that the Canadian youth television station 'YTV' will be holding the Canadian premieres of the brand-new Nickelodeon show "Breadwinners" and all-new episodes and specials of "SpongeBob SquarePants" ("SpongeBob, You're Fired"), "Sam & Cat" (#TheKillerTunaJump: #Freddie #Jade #Robbie), "Haunted Hathaways", "The Thundermans" and "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles", showing a selection of Nickelodeon Movies ("Jinxed" and "Rango"), plus will be airing a special "Kids' Choice Countdown" KCA pre-show which will lead up to the LIVE simulcast of "Nickelodeon's 27th Annual Kids' Choice Awards", the first ever live telecast of the KCAs on YTV, as part of the networks March Break-Out programming highlights! You can find YTV's full March Break-Out highlights in Corus' official press release below.

Original Corus Entertainment Inc. Press Release:

2/11/2014

YTV's New March Break-Out Schedule Gives Kids an Entire Month of New Episodes, Movie Premieres and Specials

* YTV airs Nickelodeon's 27th Annual Kids' Choice Awards live on Saturday, March 29

* New series The Next Star: SuperGroup, Breadwinners and Nerds and Monsters debut in March

* Cache Craze returns for a second season featuring Olympians Alex Bilodeau and Rosie MacLennan in the premiere episode

* The highly anticipated premieres of SpongeBob SquarePants special "You're Fired" and Sam & Cat reunion special with former iCarly and VICTORIOUS co-stars

Corus Entertainment's YTV is celebrating March Break for the entire month with an exciting programming slate that includes three new series, returning series, new episodes, movie premieres and specials.

Two new hilarious animated series Breadwinners and Nerds and Monsters are joining YTV's stable of cartoon comedy hits. Breadwinners, a Nickelodeon original series with a groovin' soundtrack, follows two booty-shaking ducks as they operate a quirky bread delivery service out of their awesome, jet-fueled Rocket Van. Nerds and Monsters, from Slap Happy Cartoons, is about a group of nerdy kid characters with quick wits on a fantastic uncharted island, à la Gilligan's Island. It's laugh-a-minute as the nerds must use nothing but their smarts to survive the relentless attacks by the island's inhabitants – a tribe of hideous, inept monsters.

YTV's brand new series, The Next Star: SuperGroup is a spin-off singing competition series in search of the next popular boy or girl group. Produced by Tricon Films & Television in association with YTV, the search for Canada's next SuperGroup sensation follows the journey of 30 finalists who travel to Toronto and compete in groups of five while they are mentored by an expert panel. In the end, only two groups will go head-to-head in the live finale, where viewers will vote to determine who wins the grand prize and title of The Next Star: SuperGroup.

For the first time ever, Nickelodeon's 27th Annual Kids' Choice Awards will air live on YTV on Saturday, March 29 at 8 p.m. ET/PT and will be simulcast on Nickelodeon (Canada). This year, Hollywood Superstar Mark Wahlberg (Transformers: Age of Extinction) will take the stage as host of the KCAs. YTV's coverage will also include a pre-show, Kids' Choice Countdown, with The Zone's Carlos Bustamante on location featuring exclusive celebrity interviews at 7:30 p.m. ET/PT.

"We're thrilled to be launching so many new series and special programming events in March," says Jocelyn Hamilton, Vice President, Programming and Original Production, Corus Kids. "YTV is a top destination for kids during March and we have a jam-packed schedule that will keep kids and their families entertained for the entire month."

Viewers can also look forward to new episodes of Haunted Hathaways, Japanizi: Going, Going, Gong!, Numb Chucks, The Thundermans and Some Assembly Required.

SERIES PREMIERES

Breadwinners (20 X 30) – Canadian Premiere
Premieres: Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. ET/PT beginning March 8
A brand-new animated series from Nickelodeon Animation Studio follows two booty-shaking ducks as they operate a bread delivery service out of their awesome, jet-fueled Rocket Van. The series charts the adventures of best friends, SwaySway and Buhdeuce, as they deliver bread to hungry beaks everywhere. These best buds live together, laugh together, and get into all sorts of riduckulous adventures together. Breadwinners is created by Steve Borst (Teen Titans Go!, MAD) and Gary "Doodles" Di Raffaele (MAD, Metalocalypse), who was discovered from Nick's 2012 Animated Shorts Program.

The Next Star: SuperGroup (6 X 60) – World Premiere
Premieres: Tuesdays at 7 p.m. ET/PT beginning March 11
The competition series is hosted by Jordan Francis (Camp Rock, Connor Undercover, CBC's Cross Country Fun Hunt) and performance coaches include actress and recording artist Cory Lee (Degrassi: The Next Generation, Instant Star) and multi-platinum music producer and songwriter Damon Sharpe (The X Factor, Big Time Rush). They will be joined by a panel of industry experts, who include choreographer Nico Archambault (So You think You Can Dance Canada, Nureyev), vocal coach Sarah Morrison (Canadian Idol, Canada's Got Talent), make-up artist Vanessa Jarman (Canada's Next Top Model, How to Look Good Naked Canada), and stylist Corey Ng (MuchMusic, ET Canada). After assembling the young artists into five groups, the coaches and experts will guide and mentor each act as they are faced with an array of challenges designed to help them fine tune their sound, style and chemistry.

Cache Craze Season 2 (20 X 30) – World Premiere
Premieres: Tuesdays at 6 p.m. ET/PT beginning March 11
Three of Canada's Gold Medal winning Olympians team up with three aspiring teen athletes in a no holds barred quest to become Cache Craze Champions. Team "Winter Gliders" features hockey player William Torriani who has enlisted Canada's hero from the 2010 and 2014 Winter Games, Alex Bilodeau. On team "Sky Riders," gymnast Rachel Tam has partnered with Gold Medalist Rosannagh (Rosie) MacLennan who brought home Olympic Gold in Trampoline, Individual Women in 2012. And finally, distance swimmer Liam Desjarlais has drafted Olympic legend Benoit Hout who has won 19 Paralympic medals including 9 Gold. These three Olympians are way out of their comfort zone while they attempt to slay some killer bees, impress a hostile audience with street magic and nab as many digital caches as they can while vying to claim the most coveted prize in sports, the Cache Craze Amaze Ball. Cache Craze is produced by 9 Story Entertainment.

Nerds and Monsters (20 X 30) – World Premiere
Premieres: Wednesday, March 12 at 5:30 p.m. Returns to its regular timeslot at 4:30 p.m. ET/PT on Wednesdays beginning March 19.
Nerds and Monsters tosses a group of nerdy kids on a fantastic uncharted island. The tween castaways must use nothing but their smarts to survive the relentless attacks by the island's inhabitants – a tribe of hideous and hilarious Monsters that are mistakenly threatened by their human invaders. Lucky for the nerds, these dim-witted monsters don't have any smarts.

SPECIALS

SpongeBob SquarePants "SpongeBob, You're Fired" – Canadian Premiere
Premieres: Monday, March 10 at 5:30 p.m. ET/PT
In order to save money, Mr. Krabs fires SpongeBob. But unable to just do nothing, SpongeBob decides to go back to work doing anything, anywhere. To celebrate the new episode, YTV is airing a special day-long SpongeBob SquarePants marathon, Krusty Kronicles, which features back-to-back Krusty Krab-themed episodes beginning at 9 a.m. ET/PT The episode marathon will be interrupted only for the SpongeBob SquarePants Movie at 12 p.m. ET/PT.

Sam & Cat "#TheKillerTunaJump: #Freddie #Jade #Robbie" – Canadian Premiere
Premieres: Monday, March 17 at 6 p.m. ET/PT
In the hour-long event, former iCarly and VICTORiOUS co-stars Freddie (Nathan Kress), Jade (Elizabeth Gillies) and Robbie (Matt Bennett) return as guest stars in their respective character roles. In this episode "Killer Tuna Jump," Jade and Sam become friends and Cat feels left out so she decides to turn the tables by befriending an old friend of Sam's. Sam then does the same and the girls' jealousy soon spirals out of control.

Kids' Choice Countdown – World Premiere
Saturday, March 29 at 7:30 p.m. ET/PT
The Zone host Carlos Bustamante hosts a pre-show from the KCAs in Los Angeles.

Nickelodeon's 27th Annual Kids' Choice Awards – Simulcast with Nickelodeon
Premieres: Saturday, March 29 at 8 p.m. ET/PT
Mark Wahlberg hosts this year's KCAs, broadcast live on YTV, with more slime (and armpit farts) than ever before.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – Canadian Premiere
A new one-hour Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles special airs Saturday, March 29 at 10:30 a.m. ET/PT
New episodes premiere all month long on Saturdays at 11 a.m. ET/PT

MARCH BREAK-OUT BIG FUN MOVIES PREMIERES

Dear Dumb Diary (2013) – Saturday, March 1 at 6 p.m. ET/PT
Dolphin Tale (2011) – Sunday, March 2 at 6 p.m. ET/PT
Animals United (2010) – Saturday, March 8 at 6 p.m. ET/PT
Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked (2011) – Sunday, March 9 at 6 p.m. ET/PT
The Smurfs (2011) – Wednesday, March 12 at 6 p.m. ET/PT
The Ant Bully (2006) – Thursday, March 13 at 6 p.m. ET/PT
Jinxed (2013) – Friday, March 14 at 6 p.m. ET/PT
Rango (2011) – Saturday, March 15 at 6 p.m. ET/PT
Spy Kids: All the Time in the World (2011) – Sunday, March 16 at 6 p.m. ET/PT

Check out www.YTV.com for more upcoming new episodes and marathons during March Break Out.

About YTV

Celebrating 25 years in television, YTV is a leading cross platform entertainment brand for kids and families. The channel offers quality entertainment with hilarious animated and live-action comedy series, popular Nickelodeon series, blockbuster movies, top-rated original Canadian programming, music, celebrities and the channel's after-school block, The Zone. Through its multiple platforms and exclusive digital and interactive content, YTV is the voice of Canadian youth culture. YTV is owned by Corus Entertainment Inc., a Canadian-based media and entertainment company that creates, broadcasts and licenses content across a variety of platforms for audiences around the world. The Company's portfolio of multimedia offerings encompasses specialty television and radio with additional assets in pay television, television broadcasting, children's book publishing, children's animation and animation software. Corus' brands include YTV, TELETOON, ABC Spark, W Network, OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network (Canada), HBO Canada, Historia and Séries+, as well as Nelvana, Kids Can Press, Toon Boom and 39 radio stations including CKNW AM 980, 99.3 The FOX, Country 105, 630 CHED, Fresh FM London, Q107 and 102.1 the Edge. A publicly traded company, Corus is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (CJR.B). Experience Corus on the web at www.corusent.com.

-30-

All YTV times are ET/PT.

For high-resolution images, please visit: http://mediacentre.corusent.com
Follow Corus PR on Twitter @CorusPR
Follow YTV on Twitter @YTV

For more information, please contact:

Kate Calder
Corus Entertainment
416.479.6319
[...]

--Ends--

Although not confirmed, it is thought the brand-new "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" special that YTV will be airing on Saturday 29th March 2014 will be the new two-part special "The Manhattan Project".
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Spin Master To Showcase New "Paw Patrol" Toy Line At The American International Toy Fair 2014

Spin Master Ltd., Canada's largest children's toy and entertainment company, has announced the PAW-tastic news in the following press release, from PRWeb, that the toyco will be showcasing its 2014 toy portfolio at the 111th American International Toy Fair in New York City, including their highly anticipated upcoming "Paw Patrol" toy line.


Spin Master's long-awaited "Paw Patrol" toy line will features the lovable pups, cool vehicles and a magical transformation that have made Paw Patrol a ratings hit. Spin Master's "Paw Patrol" merchandise line is due to be released in stores, including shops in the UK and Ireland, during Summer 2014.

Spin Master's 2014 line-up builds on the company's reputation as the leading trendsetter and category buster with a host of exciting new innovations that will strengthen their position among the most popular children's properties in the world, and introduces a number of exciting new brands that will launch throughout the year.

The BBC's consumer technology television show, Click, recently aired a small sneak-peek of Spin Master's upcoming "Paw Patrol" toys whilst Spin Master was showcasing the brand-new range at the London Toy Fair 2014:


For information on Spin Master's complete 2014 portfolio, please visit Spin Master’s NY Toy Fair Booth #767 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 11th Avenue between W. 34th & W. 39th Streets between Sunday 16th to Wednesday 19th February 2014.

"Paw Patrol", a Nickelodeon co-production with Spin Master Entertainment, stars a pack of six heroic rescue pups – Chase the German Shepherd Police Pup, Marshall the Dalmatian Firepup, Rocky the Mixed Breed Recycler, Rubble the English Bulldog Construction Worker, Zuma the Chocolate Labrador Retriever Water-Rescue Pup, and Skye the Cockapoo Aviator - who are led by a tech-savvy boy named Zack Ryder Jr., the human leader, rescuer, and teacher of the Pups. Together they work hard to protect the Adventure Bay Community believing, "no job is too big, no pup is too small!" The series features a curriculum that focuses on citizenship, social skills and problem-solving.

Original Spin Master Ltd. Press Release:

Spin Master Ltd. Unveils 2014 Toy Portfolio at New York’s International Toy Fair

Toronto, ON (PRWEB) February 13, 2014

Spin Master Ltd., Canada’s largest children's toy and entertainment company, showcases its highly anticipated 2014 toy portfolio at The 111th American International Toy Fair in New York City.

Spin Master's 2014 line-up builds on the company's reputation as the leading trendsetter and category buster with a host of exciting new innovations that will strengthen their position among the most popular children's properties in the world, and introduced a number of exciting new brands that will launch throughout the year.



Spin Master Logo

"Spin Master has always prided itself on introducing new children’s toy and entertainment products that push the boundaries of design, technology and play and that have the 'wow' factor that people love," said Ben Gadbois, Spin Master's Global President and Chief Operating Officer. "Our 2014 range is extremely innovative and a lot of fun for kids of all ages."

Some of our key highlights are as follows:

Flutterbye: Flutterbye brings the world of fantasy to life by placing the magic in little girls' hands. All of their favorite fairytale creatures come twirling, dancing, spinning, and of course flying into their rooms. Driven by innovation with a dash of magic Flutterbye puts the control into girl’s hands, inviting them to unlock their fairies hidden potential and joy.

Ionix: Ionix the revolutionary line of never before seen construction bricks that change their shape before your eyes! These construction bricks shapeshift and change to become mini figures, action figures, weapons, gear, gadgets and more. What's more, these bricks snap together with other leading construction systems. Ionix: Shapeshift, build, unleash!

How to Train Your Dragon 2 by Ionix: New from the magical, shapehshifting world of Ionix, comes How to Train Your Dragon 2 construction sets. This line of building sets is based on the much anticipated sequel to the 2010 blockbuster movie from DreamWorks, where Toothless and Hiccup return to find themselves at the center of a battle to protect the peace. Shapehshift and build your favorite dragons with new shapeshifting Ionix bricks. Recreate the incredible adventures of Toothless, Hiccup, and all of their friends as they battle against new foes and other threats to their homes on Berk.

Pokémon by Ionix: Enter the incredible world of Pokémon built on the innovative new shapeshifting bricks from Ionix! Utilize the amazing Ionix bricks to bring your favorite Pokémon characters like Pikachu, Chespin, Fennekin, Froakie and others to life. Play out exciting adventures with favorite characters from this beloved franchise in a whole new way thanks to Ionix.

Maddy: Spin Master's newest interactive doll, Maddy, is a talking, moving, "thinking," animated toy that will wow even the most tech savvy little girls. The sweet and silly personality of Maddy will make you laugh out loud as you interact with her using her included accessories and touch sensor glasses. Maddy's glasses are a pair of high-resolution LED screens that function as her eyes but will also play short animations, and can even be used to play mini games. Download the free companion app to call and text your Maddy, play games with her, and discover some of her hidden features.

Paw Patrol: Paw Patrol is on a roll and headed to toy aisles this summer. Developed by Spin Master Entertainment, Paw Patrol is a top-rated preschool series airing every weekday on Nickelodeon. When trouble strikes Adventure Bay, these heroic pups are there to save the day ...while learning lessons about friendship, safety, and teamwork. This long-awaited toy line features the lovable pups, cool vehicles and magical transformation that have made Paw Patrol a ratings hit.

Zoomer Dino Boomer: What's better than a guard dog? A guard Dino! Boomer runs around balancing on two feet, chomping and whipping his tail. Play with him in autonomous mode via the sensors in his nose, or pick up the control pod to send him on attack and put him in guard mode. Although Dino appears aggressive at first, he also has a softer side, protecting his friends and sometimes even busting a dance move. He has all different moods and will show them to you with his color changing eyes.

For information on Spin Master's complete 2014 portfolio, please visit Spin Master’s NY Toy Fair Booth #767 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, 11th Avenue between W. 34th & W. 39th Streets between Sunday, February 16th and Wednesday, February 19th.

--Ends--
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Underground Toys To Showcase New Line Of "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" Talking Soft Bag Buddies At New York Toy Fair 2014

ToyNews, a monthly trade magazine for the toy business, is reporting the Booyakasha TMNT news in the following article that Underground Toys, the originator and manufacturer of toys and entertainment products, will be unveiling their all-new product line-up for 2014, which includes their brand-new line of "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" talking soft bag buddies, inspired by Nickelodeon's hit CG-animated series of the same name, at the American International Toy Fair 2014 in New York City (also known as the New York Toy Fair)!

The toyco will also be showcasing their latest additions to their product line, including a "Walking Dead" apron, WWE talking character plush, and a Ron Burgundy moustache bottle opener.

Underground will also be displaying classic and new products from existing ranges, including for BBC's iconic "Doctor Who" brand, which will include products such as The Other Doctor's Sonic Screwdriver, The Other Doctor and The Twelfth Doctor action figures and a "Doctor Who" Mr Potato Head collection.

Meanwhile, a range of "Star Wars" gifts and homewares will also be revealed for the first time at the booth, including a "Star Wars Action Yoda" which incorporates movement, sound effects and spoken phrases.

Underground Toys will be showcasing its range at the New York Toy Fair at stand number 4820:
NY TOY FAIR 2014: Underground Toys unveils new WWE, TMNT and Anchorman products


New product line up includes Doctor Who Mr Potato Heads

Underground Toys is set to release new character licensed merchandise at New York Toy Fair, including products inspired by WWE, TMNT and Anchorman.

The firm will be showcasing its new ranges for 2014 that includes the likes of a Walking Dead apron, WWE talking character plush, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles talking soft bag buddies and a Ron Burgundy moustache bottle opener.

Underground will also be displaying classic and new products from existing ranges such as Doctor Who's The Other Doctor's Sonic Screwdriver, The Other Doctor and The Twelfth Doctor action figures and a Doctor Who Mr Potato Head collection.

Meanwhile, a range of Star Wars gifts and homewares will also be revealed for the first time at the booth, including Star Wars Action Yoda incorporating movement, sound effects and spoken phrases.

Underground Toys will be showcasing its range at the New York Toy Fair at stand number 4820.

TAGS: wwe, underground toys, tmnt, ny toy fair 2014, ron burgundy, anchorman

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Viacom International Media Networks Australia And New Zealand Names Ben Richardson As New SVP And GM

The Australian media, marketing and entertainment news website mUmBRELLA is reporting the Nickelodeon International news in the following article that Nickelodeon Australia and New Zealand's Ben Richardson has been promoted to the role of Senior Vice President (SVP) and General Manager (GM) of Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) Australia and New Zealand. Ben Richardson, Vice President (VP) and General Manager of Nickelodeon Australia and New Zealand (AUNZ) since July 2011, takes over from Katrina Southon, who is leaving Viacom after 17 years, including three years in the top job.



Ben Richardson

As VIMN AUNZ's new SVP and GM, Ben Richardson will have responsibility for all of Viacom's brands in Australia and New Zealand, including strategic direction and overall management for Nickelodeon, MTV and Comedy Central. Ben Richardson will report directly to David Lynn, Managing Director (MD) and Executive Vice President (EVP), UK, Australia & CEE and International Content Distribution, Viacom International Media Networks.

Ben Richardson first joined Viacom in 2005 and has worked in various content roles in India, Indonesia, Japan and Korea where he was the Vice President (VP) and General Manager (GM) for Viacom Korea before he moved to Nickelodeon.

Katrina Southon had worked for Viacom in London, Singapore and Sydney, and guided the launch of 30 TV channels and 12 websites around the world.

In a statement, Katrina Southon said that she is proud of her accomplishments and that her work in 2013 had prepared the business for the future:
Ben Richardson to replace Katrina Southon as head of Viacom in Australia and New Zealand

Viacom International Media Network's vice president and general manager of Nickelodeon has been given responsibility for all of Viacom’s brands in Australia and New Zealand as the region’s new senior vice president and general manager.

Ben Richardson, who has managed Nickelodeon since 2011, replaces Katrina Southon, who is leaving the company after 17 years and three years in the top job.

Richardson will be responsible for the strategic direction and overall management of the Viacom brands including MTV, Nickelodeon and Comedy Central and report directly to David Lynn, managing director and executive vice president of Viacom for the UK, Australia and Eastern Europe.

The move comes two months after the group moved its media sales from Ignite Media Brands to rivals Multi Channel Network, a move which takes effect from July and cast questions over the future of Ignite’s sales arm.

Richardson first joined the company in 2005 and has worked in various content roles in India, Indonesia, Japan and Korea where he was the VP and GM for Viacom Korea before he moved to Nickelodeon.

Lynn said: "Ben has led Nickelodeon and MTV businesses all over the world, and his success over the past three years in Australia and New Zealand makes him an ideal choice to assume leadership of the entire portfolio. He has been an ambassador of our brands for close to a decade, and I'm confident that he'll take our business to new heights across Australia and New Zealand."

Southon had worked for Viacom in London, Singapore and Sydney, and guided the launch of 30 TV channels and 12 websites around the world.

Lynn said: "Katrina's contributions to our business in Australia, New Zealand and further abroad have been plentiful, significant and trail-blazing. She's widely admired as an effective leader and she's been instrumental in both taking our businesses to new heights and guiding us through unprecedented change. We wish her all the best in her new endeavours."

Southon said in a statement she is proud of her accomplishments and that her work in 2013 had prepared the business for the future.

Richardson said: "The evolving media landscape presents new opportunities for MTV, Nickelodeon and Comedy Central every day, and I’m looking forward to collaborating with new and existing partners in this broader role."
Additional source: C21Media.
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Nickelodeon's "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" Rise To New Heights At American International Toy Fair 2014 In New York City

Playmates Toys, the company behind the beloved "Teenage Mutant Ninjas Turtles" toy line over the last three decades, has announced the Booyakasha TMNT news in the following press release, from PRNewswire, that the toyco is set to introduce its all-new 2014 "Teenage Mutant Ninjas Turtles" toy line, inspired by Nickelodeon's hit CG-animated show! The lineup provides non-stop Ninja adventures, including playsets that allow the Turtles to zip line, new action figures with unique interactive features and a new segment designed especially for preschoolers. The complete line will be on display at the American International Toy Fair in New York City, Sunday 16th to Wednesday 19th February 2014, Booth #2227.


"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles", considered one of the most popular kids' entertainment brands of the 1980s, made a triumphant return in September 2012 with the launch of Nickelodeon's popular CG-animated show and an all-new toy line inspired by the show from Playmates Toys. Now in its second season, the series continues to be a hit with audiences. The toy line is also a proven success, with the "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" once again becoming the number one action figure line in the toy industry, while also receiving numerous industry awards.

Highlights of the 2014 "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" merchandise line from Playmates Toys can be found in the toy company's press release below.

Original Playmates Toys Press Release:

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Rise To New Heights At American International Toy Fair In New York City

Playmates Toys to Introduce Action-Packed Additions to Line, Including Zip-Lining Turtles

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Feb. 14, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Playmates Toys, the company behind the beloved Teenage Mutant Ninjas Turtles toy line over the last three decades, is set to introduce its all-new 2014 line, inspired by Nickelodeon's hit CG-animated show. The lineup provides non-stop Ninja adventures, including playsets that allow the Turtles to zip line, new action figures with unique interactive features and a new segment designed especially for preschoolers. The complete line will be on display at the American International Toy Fair in New York City, February 16-19, 2014, Booth #2227.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, considered one of the most popular kids' entertainment brands of the 1980s, made a triumphant return in September 2012 with the launch of Nickelodeon's CG-animated show and an all-new toy line inspired by the show from Playmates Toys. Now in its second season, the series continues to be a hit with audiences. The toy line is also a proven success, with the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles once again becoming the number one action figure line in the toy industry, while also receiving numerous industry awards.

"The enormous success of the toy line since its epic return in 2012 demonstrates the timeless appeal of the heroes in a half shell," said Karl Aaronian, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Playmates Toys. "Playmates Toys is proud to continue the evolution of the toy line, which offers unique new features and scenarios that provide kids as young as three with open-ended and imaginative Ninja play."

"Playmates Toys have outdone themselves with a robust 2014 product assortment that truly captures the heart and soul of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles," said Manuel Torres, Senior Vice President, Global Toys and Publishing. "The introduction of Half-Shell Heroes and Z-Line Ninjas, coupled with the amazing refresh of our core line will have our fans oozing with excitement! We're looking forward to another monumental year for Turtles."

Highlights of the 2014 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles line from Playmates Toys include the following:

Action Figures

The Basic Action Figure assortment continues to grow with the addition of more than 25 new figures in 2014, including some of the most beloved characters from the original 1990's Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series such as Casey Jones, Mutagen Man and Slash. The highly detailed action figures are fully articulated and uniquely sculpted, with heights ranging from 4" to 5.5". Each figure is equipped with unique accessories and is compatible with most of the vehicles and playsets in the line. Figures launching in the spring include Casey Jones, Kirby Bat, Rahzar, Mutagen Man and Slash. Figures launching in the fall include the Robotic Foot Soldier, Dojo Splinter, Newtralizer and Squirrelanoid.

Playmates Toys is truly putting the action back into action figures with the introduction of the Ninja Action Deluxe Figures. Kids can wind the figures up and watch as they perform Ninja moves, including awesome front flips, non-stop Ninja cartwheels and extreme knee spins! The collection includes Ninja Cartwheelin' Leonardo, Ninja Front Flipping Raphael and Ninja Strikin' Michelangelo.

Kids' favorite heroes in a half shell come to life with the new 11" Interactive Talking Turtles. These Turtles have a lot to say and can even talk to one another. Each Turtle knows when one of their brothers is talking and can even provide their own unique responses. When all four of the Turtles are together, kids can listen as their personalities come to life! The collection includes Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo.

With the Stretch N Shout Action Figures, kids can hear the "battle shouts" of their favorite Turtles, allowing the individual personalities of the Turtles to shine through. Each figure stands over 8" tall, comes with their core accessories and features stretchable arms. Kids can stretch the Turtles' arms, listening to the pitch get higher as the arms are stretched further. The collection includes Leonardo and Raphael.

Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo are always ready for a battle against Shredder and the evil Foot Clan, and now the Turtles can be thrown into the battle with the Throw N' Battle Deluxe Figures. Decked out in their night ninja outfits, the Throw N' Battle Turtles start out in stealth mode with their legs and arms folded behind their head. Give them a toss into the battle and they spring to their feet, unleash their weapons and are ready to take out Shredder and the Foot!

Z-Line Ninja Playsets

The all-new collection of Z-line Ninja playsets allows kids to zip their Turtles action figures around the room and from wall to wall. The playsets attach safely to walls and the zip-lines are easily connected, allowing kids to trigger a chain reaction, launching even more Turtle figures! The line includes two basic playsets, Freefall Fire Escape and Window Wipeout, as well as two deluxe playsets, Water Tower Washout and Billboard Breakout. For the ultimate zip-lining fans, the Construction Crane Cascade is an action-packed playset featuring a high flying pully system that allows kids to zip their Turtles from greater heights to gain attack speed. Each playset includes a gargoyle launcher, zip-lines, angle gauge and more. For extended Ninja play, all Z-line Ninja sets connect to create a world of zip-line action! Action figures are sold separately.

Half Shell Heroes Preschool Segment

For the first time, kids as young as three can join in non-stop Ninja fun. The all-new Half Shell Heroes segment includes action figures, vehicles and playsets, sized just right for preschool hands. It allows little ones to enjoy open-ended imaginative play adventures with the whole family of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles heroes and mutants.

The line includes an assortment of 2.5" action figures, including Leo with Luge, Mikey with Skateboard and Raph with Mini Cycle. The Shellraiser, the renowned Turtles group vehicle, is also featured in the line, allowing preschoolers to drive the Turtles into their next battle. Additionally, the Secret Sewer HQ Playset with Mikey and Splinter is packed with exciting Ninja action features, allowing little ones to engage in endless Ninja play. Rounding out the line is the Mega Mutant Leonardo, which allows little ones to practice ninja training with Leonardo as they control his ninja kicks and chops.

Vehicles

An iconic group vehicle from the original TV series is back! The new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Blimp inflates to about 30 inches long, features Turtle gliding wings, authentic Turtle graphics, holds up to five of the Turtles basic action figures and includes a rappelling system to quickly drop the Turtles into battle! The blimp's easy grip handle helps kids to maneuver the battle between the Turtles and Shredder and the Foot.

About Playmates Toys

With a history of over 40 years, Playmates Toys is today among the most well-respected and innovative marketing and distribution companies in the global toy industry with a proven history in the creation of imaginative products as well as the development and management of profitable, long-term brand franchises. Key brands include TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES, HEARTS FOR HEARTS GIRLS and WATERBABIES. From its offices in Hong Kong and California, Playmates designs, develops, markets and distributes its products in over 60 countries worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.playmatestoys.com or http://facebook.com/playmatestoys

About Nickelodeon

Nickelodeon, now in its 33rd year, is the number-one entertainment brand for kids. It has built a diverse, global business by putting kids first in everything it does. The company includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, online, recreation, books and feature films. Nickelodeon's U.S. television network is seen in 100 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 18 consecutive years. For more information or artwork, visit http://www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB)

SOURCE Playmates Toys

RELATED LINKS
http://www.playmatestoys.com

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To celebrate their brand-new range of "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" toys, Playmates Toys has unveiled a selection of their TV advertisements to promote their all-new TMNT toy range on their official YouTube channel, which you can watch here at youtube.com/user/TMNTToys!
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MEGA Brands Announces MEGA BLOKS "Power Rangers Super Megaforce" Range For Fall 2014

Go Go Power Rangers! MEGA Brands, a trusted family of leading global brands in construction toys, games & puzzles, arts & crafts and stationery, has announced the exciting Nickelodeon Licensing news in a press release the expansion of their Mega Bloks kids' construction toys portfolio for 2014 with Saban Brands' latest all-new season of "Power Rangers", Saban's "Power Rangers Super Megaforce"!


Mega Brands' licensed partnership with Saban is expanding to offer an exciting range of construction toys based on Saban and Nickelodeon's "Power Rangers Super Megaforce" for fans to build their favorite characters and create their own adventures with the buildable vehicles from the hugely popular entertainment franchise. Along with the collectible "Super Megaforce" micro-action figures, "Mega Bloks Power Rangers" includes the easy-to-build Zords and MegaZords! Starting Fall 2014, kids can find "Mega Bloks Power Rangers Super Megaforce" in the construction toy aisle of their favorite toy stores, as part MEGA Brands' extensive and diverse MEGA BLOKS Fall 2014 product portfolio, which also includes brand-new Mega Bloks' brand-new "SpongeBob SquarePants" construction toy range, which will include collectible figures, including SpongeBob SquarePants, Patrick Star and Squidward Tentacles, and buildable playsets like Krusty Krab Attack and Invisible Boatmobile Rescue!

Toy insiders will get a preview of the new MEGA BLOKS construction line hitting stores during Fall/Autumn 2014 at the American International Toy Fair 2014 being held at Jacob K. Javitz Convention Center, New York City, booth #751 from Sunday 16th to Wednesday 19th February 2014.

Nick USA debuted the latest all-new season of "Power Rangers", Saban's "Power Rangers Super Megaforce", today, Saturday 15th February 2014, at 12:00pm (ET/PT)! Following today's debut, the show will air regularly Saturdays at 12:00pm (ET/PT) on Nickelodeon USA, with encores airing Saturdays from 8:00pm – 9:00pm ET beginning Saturday 22nd February 2014 on Nicktoons USA.
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