Friday, October 09, 2020

How Children's Shows Lead the Way in Diversity on TV

More than half of kids series on major networks and streamers are inclusive, a fact that execs say attracts similar talent behind the scenes and can "create loyalty for life" among viewers.


Nickelodeon's 'The Casagrandes'

When Doc McStuffins premiered in 2012 on Disney Channel, its title character was the first Black girl to be front and center in a preschool animated series.

Eight years later, more than half of the current scripted shows on Disney, Nickelodeon and their respective "junior" preschool channels — both live action and animated — feature people of color or members of the LGBTQ community as main characters. Netflix, which has made a major push into kids and family programming the past few years, isn’t too far behind. PBS has been heralding diversity in children’s programming since Sesame Street debuted in 1969 and now has the first kids show with an Alaska Native as its lead in Molly of Denali, an animated series that premiered in summer 2019. And the 14-year-old protagonist of Disney’s new animated series The Owl House is the network’s first bisexual lead character.

At a time when the TV industry at large is grappling with its weak history of inclusivity in front of and behind the camera — amid nationwide calls for racial and social justice and the continued advocacy of groups like Color of Change and the Think Tank for Inclusion & Equity — it might take some lessons from shows aimed at the youngest viewers.

The 2019 Hollywood Diversity Report from UCLA showed that while minority groups had made gains, they were still underrepresented as leads on mainstream shows compared to their percentage of the population. Meanwhile, of 56 current scripted series for kids across Disney Channel, Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network and Netflix, 30 of them — about 54 percent — have lead characters from traditionally underrepresented populations. (The numbers exclude shows like Nick’s SpongeBob SquarePants and Disney’s Duck Tales that are primarily populated with non-human characters.)

"We are in the first window of media consumption for kids, and that is an incredible responsibility and an incredible opportunity," Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer of Disney Channels Worldwide, tells The Hollywood Reporter. "Along with Nick and some of the other streaming services now, I feel like, to some degree, we’ve helped change the sociology of a generation of kids by consistently showcasing a spectrum that looks different, certainly, from the TV that I grew up on."

The idea of diversity in children’s TV isn’t new; Sesame Street has been an inclusive show from its beginnings more than a half century ago, and shows like Nickelodeon's Taina and The Brothers Garcia and Disney’s The Proud Family and That’s So Raven revolved around Latino and Black characters during the early 2000s. But, until recently, it hasn’t been the norm. Now, people working in kids programming say they see an effort by studios and outlets to not only show inclusive characters onscreen but also diversify the creative ranks.

"I think as you have more younger creatives, there tends to be more of an openness to show who they are,” says Elizabeth Ito, an animation veteran and writer on Adventure Time who’s now working on a show called City of Ghosts for Netflix. "Gradually, there has been a little bit more acceptance and more awareness of all sorts of things that I think everybody was really clumsy about before as far as diversity and representation, not even just talking about race."

Ramsey Naito, who heads Nickelodeon Animation, says that in addition to looking for stories that come from a wide range of creators, she’s also hoping to diversify those guiding the ViacomCBS network.

"I knew that I had to build a team, which meant we had to reorganize leadership and hire with a focus on diverse leadership," she says. "And I think over the past year and a half, you'd be able to see many announcements that we made [regarding] leadership and promotion that illustrate how diverse our leadership is, which is fantastic. Because what that does is it attracts diverse stories, diverse talents, to come to Nick and see themselves in our leadership and tell stories that they know we relate to."

Anna Berthold, a motion picture literary agent at UTA who works extensively in the animation space, says talk from studios, networks and streamers about wanting diverse creators is “not just lip service.”

"It’s what they’re asking for — ‘We want to hear more from Black creators, LGBTQ creators, Asian, Latinx,' " she says. "Not all of it is hitting screens right now because of the long lead time for animation, but it’s going to be. It’s clearly a priority."

That’s not to say, however, that the kids TV business is doing everything right. Doc McStuffins creator Chris Nee tells THR that while onscreen inclusivity is rising — that show also was the first of its kind to feature a family led by LGBTQ parents — there’s still work to be done in hiring and staffing behind the camera.

"It’s a self-defining issue, as it often is," says Nee, who now has a multiyear overall deal at Netflix. "By not portraying diverse voices, we don’t present ourselves as an open door for someone to imagine themselves in this career and working in this end of the business. So you stop people [from] heading toward becoming animators or writers for animation. We have to change all of that to make [it] clear that diverse talent is a priority."

Nee notes that she tries to further that cause through mentorship — not under a studio or network program but by actually hiring people from underrepresented groups to work on her shows. "For me, that’s hiring people at a coordinator level but actively working to promote them," she says. "That’s been a great way for me to develop a lot of homegrown talent within my own organization, and people are now showrunners and creators and EPs who started as my coordinators."

Kenny Ortega has presided over two of Disney Channel’s biggest original movie franchises, directing 2006’s High School Musical, its sequels and the three Descendants films. All had diverse casts, and his latest project, the Netflix series Julie and the Phantoms (based on a Nickelodeon Brazil series), stars 16-year-old Puerto Rican newcomer Madison Reyes. He notes that unlike his early days in the business, when he’d have to fight to hire nonwhite dancers for projects he choreographed, inclusive casting is becoming the norm.

“I remember having to say, 'Look, if we’re going to work together, you need to know I come with ideas, and if I’m not going to be able to bring those ideas into the work, then you’re maybe looking at the wrong person,'" he says. "And suddenly I’m walking in the room and people are telling me that. 'We’re a diverse-thinking company and we want to find balance in the way that we look at our casting.' And I’m like, 'Really? This is fantastic.' I don't have to engage in that conversation up front."

PBS Kids head of content Linda Simensky recalls showing her own children the series she worked on in the 1990s when she was at Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network. "They were laughing at them — not with them but at them,” she says. "I asked, 'What’s wrong,' and they said, 'They’re so white.' To them, that just seemed kind of ridiculous."

Executives in kids programming say that developing and making inclusive shows is just good business — and that includes Simensky, who doesn’t face the commercial or sub- scriber-retention imperatives that for-profit outlets do.

"You still want viewers, and I feel like capturing the world as it is makes perfect sense," she says. "Kids should see themselves somewhere on our air."

Disney’s Marsh says programming for diverse audiences by this point is simply "Brand 101."

"To the extent that I can find content or images that look like [viewers’] homes, their clothing, their recreational activities, their family structures, they will connect more deeply with the content and with the brand," he says.

"And, again, being in the first media window for many of these people, if I can establish that connection in their minds for what Disney represents to them — that 'Disney gets me,' 'Disney hears me' — I create loyalty for life."

That talk has all happened before, of course, without resulting in systemic change. Nee hopes the current moment turns out to be a true tipping point.

"I hope this is the year this becomes an ingrained part of how people think — that you have to think differently and think outside of your own point of view and the scope of seeing things you grew up with, and it’s better for all of us,” she says. "I hope that sticks."


Nick Jr. UK Premieres 'Deer Squad'

Catch Kai, Lola, Rammy and Bobby in Nickelodeon's Brand New Animated Adventure Rescue Show, DEER SQUAD

Every episode of Deer Squad promises action, comedy and a whole lot of heart.


Bursting onto the scene this October are Kai, Lola, Rammy and Bobbi – the DEER SQUAD. These four lovable, enthusiastic and heroic young deer friends are the protectors of Central Forest and all who inhabit Platinum City, the futuristic metropolis surrounding their woodland home.

Deer Run (formally Deer Run) is Nickelodeon’s brand new CG-animated adventure rescue show that follows the four friends on their daily adventures as they learn about the world around them and lend a helping hand to the animals of Central Forest and humans of Platinum City. From tackling giant doughnuts to tornadoes to ice robots, when there’s trouble the Deer summon their Planet Powers and transform into a team that is capable of solving problems using their Planet Powers of Water (Kai), Wood (Lola), Earth (Bobbi) and Sun (Rammy).


Packed with action, comedy and heart, each episode of DEER SQUAD tells relatable yet meaningful stories that help build character and teach valuable life lessons like teamwork and problem-solving.

Get set for adventure with DEER SQUAD! Premiering on Nick Jr. UK & Ireland on Thursday 1st October 2020 at 7:45am!

Produced by iQIYI under the creative guidance and supervision of Nickelodeon, Deer Squad was developed with global audiences in mind. From the storyline to the characters and production, all elements have been created to meet the highest international standards. The story cleverly combines adventure, education, and humour to convey universal values such as love, courage and responsibility. The series has also been meticulously curated to feature inspiring role models and tips on staying safe. It is the first time Nickelodeon Asia is taking a Chinese original IP on its network from conception phase. A second season has been commissioned.

Deer Squad season one premiered on iQIYI in China on Wednesday 15th July 2020. Following its world debut, Deer Squad premiered on Nickelodeon South East Asia on Monday 3rd August 2020. The series will also air internationally by later this year.

Watch the trailer (for Nick SEA) here:


iQIYI has been expanding its global resources and partnerships in the children's animation space in recent years, working with renowned animation houses such as Nickelodeon, BBC and Disney to provide diversified and premium content. The international release of Deer Squad demonstrates that the global industry has recognized the high-quality original content produced by iQIYI as well as the influence of its platform.

iQIYI will continue to deliver on its commitment of creating high-quality and original IPs and look to further expand its IP industry chain by hosting events and developing spin-offs and merchandise. These initiatives will allow the Company to realize the full commercial value of its IPs while simultaneously enhancing the children's content industry and boosting the international competitiveness of Chinese-made original animation.

Online at nickjr.co.uk and the Nick Jr. Play app, parents and preschoolers can find lots of activities and games guaranteed to keep their little ones occupied for hours. Parents can also like the official Nick Jr. UK & Ireland Twitter, Facebook and Instagram pages and sign up to the official Nick Jr. Fan Club for the latest Nick Jr. news, highlights, video clips, competitions and more.

Update (9/10) - iQIYI has revealed during MIPCOM Online (2020) that Deer Squad has already become one of the top 5 children's shows on the platform! Additionally, Nickelodeon is planning to rollout the series in Germany, Austria and Switzerland and in Latin America and Australia very soon!

About iQIYI, Inc.

iQIYI, Inc. is an innovative market-leading online entertainment service in China. Its corporate DNA combines creative talent with technology, fostering an environment for continuous innovation and the production of blockbuster content. iQIYI's platform features highly popular original content, as well as a comprehensive library of other professionally-produced content, partner-generated content and user generated content. The Company distinguishes itself in the online entertainment industry by its leading technology platform powered by advanced AI, big data analytics and other core proprietary technologies. iQIYI attracts a massive user base with tremendous user engagement and has developed a diversified monetization model including membership services, online advertising services, content distribution, live broadcasting, online games, IP licensing, online literature and e-commerce.

About Nick Jr.

Where every day’s an adventure, Nick Jr. is a top-performing commercial pre-school entertainment brand in cable and satellite homes. Launched in 1999 as the world's first channel dedicated to pre-school children, Nick Jr.’s programming includes beloved shows PAW Patrol, Shimmer and Shine, Nella the Princess Knight and Peppa Pig. Kids and parents can find lots of video clips, games, exclusive activities and downloads featuring their favourite Nick Jr. friends online at nickjr.co.uk and on the Nick Jr. Play app. Viewers also have the opportunity to catch up with the schedule through Nick Jr. +1. Nick Jr. is available on Sky 615, Virgin 715, through BT Vision and TalkTalk channel 318.

About Nickelodeon

The Nickelodeon Network is a top-performing commercial kids’ TV network in the UK and Ireland with Nickelodeon channels available in over 13 million cable and satellite homes. Having launched in 1993 Nickelodeon UK comprises seven dedicated entertainment channels for kids aged 4-15 and their families, and is a joint venture between ViacomCBS Networks and BSkyB.

What Did You Think of the New 'PAW Patrol' Special 'Ultimate Rescue: Pups Save the Pupmobiles'? | Nickelodeon Fan Poll

What did you think of the first brand-new PAW Patrol special "Ultimate Rescue: Pups Save the Pupmobiles"? Vote in the poll and sound off in the comments below!

What Did You Think of the Series Premiere of 'Santiago of the Seas', 'The Legend of Capitán Calavera'? | Nickelodeon Fan Poll

What do you think of the series premiere of Santiago of the Seas, "The Legend of Capitán Calavera"? Vote in the poll and sound off in the comments below!:

Classic Rugrats Comic Strip for Friday, October 9, 2020 | Nickelodeon

Classic Rugrats Comic Strip for Friday, October 9, 2020 | Nickelodeon
Rugrats, provided to Creators Syndicate by Nickelodeon, based off the popular animated television series has been created for children and family's to laugh and enjoy together.

Follow these comics and their take on real episodes of the show and their own spin on hilarious adventures.

Read more Rugrats comic strips!: https://www.creators.com/features/rugrats

More Nick: Nickelodeon and Paramount to Bring 'Rugrats' Back for the Next Generation of Kids!
Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Classic Nickelodeon, NickRewind and Rugrats News and Highlights!

Lincoln & Ronnie Anne's Vlog #14: Halloween Preparation 👻 | The Loud House

Lincoln & Ronnie Anne's Vlog #14: Halloween Preparation 👻 | The Loud House


Lincoln and Ronnie Anne are back with their 14th vlog and they are preparing for an awesome and spooky Halloween! Let's see what ideas that have to get the ultimate amount of candy and figure out who is dressing up as what.

Watch The Loud House & The Casagrandes on Nickelodeon!

Subscribe to the official The Loud House & The Casagrandes YouTube channel!: https://at.nick.com/LoudCasaSubscribe

More Halloween goodies!: http://nickalive.blogspot.com/search/label/Halloween%20On%20Nickelodeon

More Nick: Nickelodeon USA's Halloween 2020 Highlights!
Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Halloween on Nickelodeon, The Casagrandes and The Loud House News and Highlights!

The Story of Avatar Wan 🔥 Origins of the First Avatar | The Legend of Korra

The Story of Avatar Wan 🔥 Origins of the First Avatar | The Legend of Korra


The full story of Avatar Wan featured in Legend of Korra is not only interesting and enlightening, but completely game changing when it comes to understanding the powers and history in the world of Avatar! We learned about Raava, Vaatu, the Lion Turtles, ancient human society, spirits, and more–– all of which were mysteries before this point. Now, enjoy this 16 minute version of Wan's origin story!

Watch the Avatar: The Last Airbender pilot here!: http://nickalive.blogspot.com/2020/09/full-episode-avatar-last-airbender.html

Subscribe to the NEW official Avatar: The Last Airbender YouTube channel!: https://at.nick.com/AvatarSubscribe

Watch Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra on CBS All Access and Netflix!

More Nick: Toph Beifong to Feature in Her Own Standalone 'Avatar: The Last Airbender' Graphic Novel!
Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon, NickRewind, Avatar: The Last Airbender and The Legend of Korra News and Highlights!

Funniest Halloween Moments with Nickelodeon Stars 😂🎃

Funniest Halloween Moments with Nickelodeon Stars 😂🎃


From gross out taste tests to frightening pranks and challenges, relive the funniest Halloween moments with your fave Nick stars like Jace Norman and JoJo Siwa!

More Halloween goodies!: http://nickalive.blogspot.com/search/label/Halloween%20On%20Nickelodeon

More Nick: 'The Astronauts' Suits Up for Hour-Long Launch Event, Friday, Nov. 13, at 7 p.m. (ET/PT) on Nickelodeon!
Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Halloween on Nickelodeon News and Highlights!

Kira Kosarin - December (PhotoBoothStyle)

Kira Kosarin - December (PhotoBoothStyle)


Buy/Stream the rest of Kira's music: https://linktr.ee/kirakosarin

LYRICS:

Baby it’s already December, 
Sweep our problems under the snow
Blanket for the pain I remember 
Tell myself I’m numb to the cold 

365 days with you,
Now I swear even the rain is confused...
Cuz we been through every season
And we’re still feeling all our feelings

cuz you make me
Cold
yeah you make me
Cold
how your love so 
Cold
yeah you got me
Cold
how your love so

Can’t keep a fire with no air
See you and I goin nowhere 
I’m getting smoke in my eye and I know it ain’t right and I know that you don’t care 

Now your love is a blizzard,
Can’t see thru the storm
Won't be around when December gone

365 days with you,
Now I swear even the rain is confused
Cuz we been through every season...
And we’re still feeling all our feelings

cuz you make me
Cold
yeah you make me
Cold
how your love so
Cold
yeah you got me
Cold
how your love so

More Nick: Fun For Fall | Fall 2020 on Nickelodeon USA | Highlights Trailer | Nickelodeon!
Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon and The Thundermans News and Highlights!

Pirates From Santiago of the Seas Make Friends With An Octopus | Santiago of the Seas | Dodo Kids

Pirates From Santiago of the Seas Make Friends With An Octopus | Santiago of the Seas | Dodo Kids


Argh, maties! Santiago, Tomás, and Lorelai are heading beneath the waves to make some undersea friends, and you’re coming, too! We’ll meet a fun-loving dolphin and TWO friendly octopuses! Adventure awaits!

Don’t miss the new preschool series Santiago of the Seas, Friday at 12:30/11:30c on Nickelodeon. Info: http://nickalive.blogspot.com/2020/07/nickelodeon-to-premiere-new-preschool.html

Paid for by Nickelodeon

More Nick: Nickelodeon Dives In With All-New 'Baby Shark' Animated Preschool Series 'Baby Shark’s Big Show!'!
Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon News and Highlights!

Rainbow Rangers Toys Commercial | Team Rainbow Rangers Multipack

Rainbow Rangers Toys Commercial | Team Rainbow Rangers Multipack


Help is a Rainbow away with the brand-new Rainbow Rangers toys, available at Walmart! With all seven colorful and articulating Rainbow Rangers and their lovable unicorn Floof included, the Rainbow Rangers Multipack Figurine Set is perfect for saving the day!

When trouble comes, they're on the way! Rainbow Rangers save the day! Whether a baby polar bear is stranded on an iceberg, or Preston Praxton is up to his tricks again, the Rainbow Rangers and their unique superpowers will conquer any obstacle!

WHERE TO BUY: https://www.walmart.com/ip/Fisher-Price-Rainbow-Rangers-Team-Rainbow-Rangers-Figure-Set/688652596

Rainbow Rangers on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RainbowRangersOfficial/

Rainbow Rangers on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/RainbowRangersOfficial/

More Nick: 'Rainbow Rangers' Toys From Mattel’s Fisher-Price Debuts at Retail in the U.S.!
Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nick Jr., Nickelodeon Preschool and Rainbow Rangers News and Highlights!

You Are A Super-Hero! | Extraordinary Me | Nickelodeon Brazil

Você é um Super-Herói! | Nickelodeon Brasil


Mais Nick: Nickelodeon Brazil Announces 'Meus Prêmios Nick 2020' Winners!

Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon Brazil News and Highlights!

Kidrobot Unveils SpongeBob 'Patrick Star Art Figure - NYCC Iridescent Edition'

SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS PATRICK STAR ART FIGURE - NYCC IRIDESCENT EDITION (PRE-ORDER)


Price: $ 64.99

ESTIMATED SHIPPING DECEMBER 2020/JANUARY 2021
.
Estimated Shipping Date Subject to Change. All sales final.

Ahoy, maties! Everyone’s favorite pink sea star just stepped (swam? drifted?) into the world of collectible art, with the new Kidrobot x Nickelodeon Patrick Star art figure! Sitting nearly 9-inches tall, inside a clear ABS shell, this Patrick is the perfect companion piece to our recent SpongeBob art figure – and is ready for endless adventures deep down in Bikini Bottom. Once he’s finished with doing nothing, of course.

This NYCC Exclusive Iridescent Star Edition is available only on Kidrobot.com and a limited edition of 300 pieces worldwide.


The Bikini Bottom Box - a brand new SpongeBob subscription box, coming soon!: http://nickalive.blogspot.com/2020/10/culture-fly-to-launch-bikini-bottom-box.html

Watch SpongeBob SquarePants on Nickelodeon!

Listen to The SpongeBob Musical here!: https://spongebobmusical.blogspot.com

SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom - Rehydrated is now available on PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch!

CALLING ALL GOOFY GOOBERS! (ROCK!) Are ya ready for a deep dive into the world of SpongeBob SquarePants? The SpongeBob YouTube channel is THE PLACE for all fan-favorite SpongeBob moments! We’re serving up everything from legendary scenes to remixes of classic songs to deep dives into Bikini Bottom lore. Be sure to check back every week for Music Mondays, Wumbo Wednesdays, and Flashback Fridays! Subscribe now at https://www.youtube.com/SpongeBobOfficial!

Shop SpongeBob!: https://www.spongebobshop.com - SpongeBob face masks now available, with ALL proceeds going to charity!

More Nick: CBS All Access to Premiere 'Kamp Koral: SpongeBob's Under Years' During Early 2021!

Originally published: Friday, September 18, 2020. H/T: SYFY WIRE.
Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon at NYCC and SpongeBob SquarePants News and Highlights!

Funko Unveils NYCC 2020 Exclusive Danny Phantom Pop! Figure

He's a phantom Funko!


Funko has announced the phan-tastic news that they'll be releasing a vinyl figure based on Nickelodeon's resident Ghostbuster Danny Phantom for New York Comic Con 2020!


Funko's Danny Phantom Pop! Figure depicts Danny Fenton in his ghostly alter-ego, Danny Phantom, complete with his snow white hair and glowing green eyes and holding some ectoplasm, and will be made available in a limited quality as a NYCC 2020 Exclusive.

Update (9/18) - The Danny Phantom Funko Pop! figure will be available to purchase on Funko.com and at Target!

WANT TO WIN A DANNY PHANTOM FUNKO POP?” | Butch Hartman



In addition to the Danny Phantom Funko Pop!, Funko will also be releasing figures based on SpongeBob SquarePants' Mermaid Man and Barnacle Boy for NYCC 2020!



"Danny Phantom Funko Pop WINNER ANNOUNCED!"


New York Comic Con 2020 was supposed to take place on October 8th through the 11th of this year. Just like previous conventions that have been canceled (Emerald City, WonderExpo, San Diego), Funko will be having replacing NYCC with Virtual Con 4.0. Just like San Diego Comic Con, these will all be released on the Funko-Shop in one big online event. Most of these Pops will be getting shared exclusives that will hit the usual chain of retailers like GameStop, Walmart, Target, Hot Topic, and more. Basing everything off the last online event, the Funko-Shop will have a 50/50 chance of getting your hands on an official NYCC sticker. Fans will be able to find them here when the event takes place which still has yet to be determined. The shared exclusives list also has not been released but we should see it by the end of the week. Stay tuned for new Nickelodeon NYCC 2020 Funko reveals as they release in the coming days.

Additional sources: Bleeding Cool, ComicBook.

Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon and Danny Phantom News and Highlights!

Nickelodeon to Premiere New Preschool Series 'Santiago of the Seas' on Friday, October 9, at 12:30 p.m. (ET/PT)

¡PIRATAS AHOY!

NICKELODEON’S BRAND-NEW PRESCHOOL SERIES
SANTIAGO OF THE SEAS SETS SAIL FOR ACTION-PACKED
ADVENTURES, FRIDAY, OCT. 9, AT 12:30 P.M. (ET/PT)


Share it: @NickJr #SantiagoOfTheSeas

BURBANK, Calif.–July 14, 2020–Preschoolers will set sail for swashbuckling adventures in Nickelodeon’s brand-new animated series Santiago of the Seas, premiering Friday, Oct. 9, at 12:30 p.m. (ET/PT). Infused with a Spanish-language and Latino-Caribbean culture curriculum, the action-adventure series (20 episodes) follows 8-year-old Santiago “Santi” Montes, a brave and kind-hearted pirate, as he embarks on daring rescues, searches for treasures and keeps the high seas safe in a fantastical Caribbean world. Following the U.S. launch, Santiago of the Seas will roll out on Nickelodeon and Nick Jr. channels internationally. 


In the series, Santiago’s (Kevin Chacon) steadfast and loyal crew consists of: Tomás (Justice Quiroz), his clumsy energetic cousin whose magical guitar can be used to harness the wind; and Lorelai (Alyssa Cheatham), a knowledgeable mermaid who can speak to sea creatures and transform into a young human girl. Together, Santi and his best mates sail the seas on the majestic ship El Bravo, using their smarts, pirate skills and moral compasses to guard their home of Isla Encanto from villains like the nefarious pirate Bonnie Bones (Kyndra Sanchez) and her Palm Crow sidekick Sir Butterscotch (John Leguizamo).



In the Santiago of the Seas series premiere, “The Legend of Capitán Calavera,” Santiago and his friends become the new pirate protectors of Isla Encanto after discovering the lost treasure of the legendary Capitán Calavera. Following the premiere, NickJr.com and the Nick Jr. App will feature original short-form content and full-length episodes. Episodes will also be available on Nick Jr. On Demand and Download-To-Own services.


Santiago of the Seas is created by Niki López, Leslie Valdes and Valerie Walsh Valdes. Valdes and Walsh Valdes (Dora the Explorer) serve as executive producers with López co-executive producing. Santiago of the Seas is produced by Nickelodeon Animation Studio in Burbank, Calif., with production overseen by Eryk Casemiro, Senior Vice President, Nickelodeon Preschool.

Nickelodeon, now in its 41st 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 brand includes television programming and production in the United States and around the world, plus consumer products, digital, location based experiences, publishing and feature films. For more information or artwork, visit http://www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of ViacomCBS Inc. (Nasdaq: VIACA, VIAC).

# # #


La Nueva Serie Infantil de Nickelodeon 'Santiago of the Seas' Zarpa en Una Aventura Repleta de Acción el Viernes 9 de Octubre a Las 12:30 P.M. (Hora Del Este y Hora Del Pacífico)

Below is the en Español version of Nickelodeon's press release announcing the premiere of Santiago of the Seas. The English version of this press release, click here:

¡PIRATAS A LA VISTA!

LA NUEVA SERIE INFANTIL DE NICKELODEON
SANTIAGO OF THE SEAS ZARPA EN UNA AVENTURA REPLETA DE
ACCIÓN EL VIERNES 9 DE OCTUBRE A LAS 12:30 P.M. (HORA DEL
ESTE Y HORA DEL PACÍFICO)


Compártelo: @NickJr #SantiagoOfTheSeas

Burbank, Calif. – 14 de julio de 2020 – Los niños en edad preescolar emprenderán fantásticas aventuras en altamar en la nueva serie animada de Nickelodeon Santiago of the Seas, que se estrenará el viernes 9 de octubre a las 12:30 p.m. (hora del este y hora del Pacífico). Con contenido en idioma español y relacionado con la cultura latina y caribeña, la serie de acción y aventuras (20 episodios) es protagonizada por Santiago “Santi” Montes, un valiente pirata de 8 años con buen corazón que organiza arriesgados rescates, busca tesoros y custodia la seguridad de los mares en un mundo del Caribe de fantasía. Luego de su estreno en EE.UU., Santiago of the Seas se lanzará en los canales Nickelodeon y Nick Jr. a nivel internacional.

En la serie, la fiel tripulación de Santiago (Kevin Chacon) está compuesta por Tomás (Justice Quiroz), su torpe y enérgico primo cuya guitarra mágica puede usarse para conjurar al viento; y Lorelai (Alyssa Cheatham), una sabia sirena que puede hablar con las criaturas marinas y transformarse en una niña humana. Juntos, Santi y sus mejores amigos navegarán los mares en el majestuoso barco El Bravo, usando su inteligencia, sus destrezas piratas y sus valores morales para resguardar su hogar, la Isla Encanto, de los villanos como la nefasta pirata Bonnie Bones (Kyndra Sánchez) y su secuaz del Palm Crow, Sir Butterscotch (John Leguizamo).

En el estreno de la serie Santiago of the Seas, “The Legend of Capitán Calavera”, Santiago y sus amigos se convierten en los nuevos protectores piratas de la Isla Encanto después de descubrir el tesoro perdido del legendario capitán Calavera. Luego del estreno, se podrá encontrar contenido original en formato breve y episodios completos en NickJr.com y la aplicación de Nick Jr. Los episodios también estarán disponibles en Nick Jr. On Demand y en servicios de descarga y compra.


Santiago of the Seas fue creada por Niki López, Leslie Valdes y Valerie Walsh Valdes. Valdes y Walsh Valdes (Dora the Explorer) son productoras ejecutivas, mientras que López es coproductora ejecutiva. Santiago of the Seas es producida por Nickelodeon Animation Studio en Burbank, California, y la producción de la serie está supervisada por Eryk Casemiro, vicepresidente sénior de Nickelodeon Preschool.

Nickelodeon, un canal que ya tiene 41 años, es la marca de entretenimiento número uno para niños. Ha construido un negocio diverso y mundial colocando a los niños en primer lugar en todo lo que hace. La compañía incluye programación y producción de TV en Estados Unidos y en todo el mundo, además de productos de consumo, contenido digital, experiencias situadas en lugares concretos, libros y películas. Para obtener más información o material gráfico, visita http://www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon y todos sus títulos, personajes y logos relacionados son marcas registradas de ViacomCBS Inc. (Nasdaq: VIACA, VIAC).

# # #

Pluto TV to Launch in Spain in October 2020

PLUTO TV LAUNCHES IN SPAIN END OF OCTOBER 2020

THE LEADING FREE, AD-SUPPORTED, STREAMING TELEVISION SERVICE WILL LAUNCH WITH 40 EXCLUSIVE CHANNELS AND THOUSANDS OF HOURS OF FREE CONTENT

MOVISTAR+ WILL PARTNER WITH PLUTO TV FOR THE ADVERTISING OF THE PLATFORM


Milan, October 8th  2020 – ViacomCBS Networks International (VCNI) announced today that Pluto TV, its leading free, ad-supported streaming television service, will be available in Spain from the end of  October via www.pluto.tv, Apple TV, Android TV and Amazon Fire TV and mobile device apps for download in iOS and Android.

As the first free, with no registration required, FAST (free ad-supported streaming television) service on the Spanish market, Pluto TV will launch with 40 thematic and uniquely-curated channels across multiple genres, including movies, TV series, reality, kids’ IP, lifestyle, crime, and comedy. It's currently unknown whether it'll carry any Nickelodeon content at launch.

Movistar+, a telecommunications brand owned by Telefónica, will be responsible for selling the platform’s conventional advertising.

“This innovative service perfectly complements our linear and non-linear offering in Spain,” said Raffaele Annecchino, President ViacomCBS EMEA and Asia, Digital and Mobile Strategy VCNI. “Pluto TV has shown great success in the USA, and this launch in Spain marks an important step of our expansion in Europe, where the service is already available in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and the UK. I’m convinced that Pluto TV will revolutionize the Spanish streaming and TV market, introducing a new model of watching content based on curated channels and vertical content. Thanks to our partnership with Movistar+ on the advertising side, we are in a great position to drive significant growth, in parallel with our content expansion goal, to have 100 channels by the end of 2021”.

“Pluto TV represents a new asset and value proposition for Movistar+ within the advertising market,” said Sergio Oslé, President of Movistar+. “It’s model is based on targeting high quality environments, top brand safety and premium quality content that offers new TV viewing with multi-platform audiovisual contents. As  premium and secure purchasing formats and models  are more adapted to the digital world, we remain committed to working towards the digital transformation of TV advertising. This partnership is a step forward in the continuous improvement of our capabilities as an innovative platform and advertising marketer.”

Pluto TV will offer a wide variety of curated channels across categories, including movie channels like Pluto TV Cine Comedia, Pluto Thrillers, Pluto TV Cine Romántico, and iconic series channels such as Ana y los 7, Curro Jiménez, and Andrómeda. Viewers will also be offered kids channels like Pluto TV Junior, Pluto TV Kids, as well as comedy, gaming, and extreme sports channels. This offer will continue to expand with more channels added every month.

Pluto TV will work with over 20 important content partners in Spain such as All3Media,  Endemol Shine, Fremantle and Lionsgate. New content partners will be announced shortly.

The news follows ViacomCBS launching Pluto TV in Latin America earlier this year, with plans to launch the service in Brazil in December 2020.

From LOS40:

PLUTO TV, LA NUEVA PLATAFORMA QUE HARÁ COMPETENCIA A NETFLIX, DISNEY Y AMAZON EN ESPAÑA

El registro será completamente gratuito e incluirá más de 50 canales de televisión con películas, series y realities

Si la irrupción de Disney+ supuso un terremoto en el complejo tablero de las plataformas en streaming en España, la de Pluto TV puede suponer un cataclismo. La pugna por el liderazgo de los contenidos se va a recrudecer con este nuevo jugador, que promete emitir en abierto y de forma completamente gratuita decenas de canales de televisión y contenidos como películas, series y reality shows. Un duro competidor a batir por HBO, Netflix y Amazon Prime Video.

Pluto TV es un canal muy popular tanto en Estados Unidos como en Latinoamérica. En su catálogo de contenidos se incluyen productos de más de medio centenar de socios comerciales entre los que se incluyen títulos de Nickelodeon, Paramount, Sony Pictures Television, Lionsgate o BBC Studios, entre otros. Los contenidos pueden verse a través de la programación de los canales en directo o seleccionando las películas y series como una plataforma de vídeo bajo demanda (VOD) al uso.

Películas y series como Hachiko, Algo para en Hollywood, Kill Bill, Broadchurch, The Americans, The Walking Dead, La llegada o Star Trek: La nueva generación forman parte del catálogo norteamericano y latino. Y aunque aún no hay una lista de los contenidos oficiales que tendremos en España, presuponemos que ese variado abanico de ofertas –que tiene confirmadas series españolas como Ana y los siete– será muy similar en nuestro país, convirtiendo a Pluto TV en uno de los grandes rivales del streaming.

"Estoy seguro de que Pluto TV revolucionará el mercado televisivo y de streaming español al introducir un nuevo modelo de consumo basado en contenido vertical y canales seleccionados", explica Raffaele Annecchino, presidente de ViacomCBS en Europa, Oriente Medio y África.

Pluto TV tendrá aplicaciones disponibles para Apple y Android y podrá verse también a través de su web oficial. La empresa, dependiente de Viacom CBS, ha firmado además un contrato con Movistar+ para que esta gestione la estrategia publicitaria. Cómo afectará esta colaboración a los contenidos de una y otra es, de momento, un misterio.

Eso sí: al ser gratuita y no necesitar siquiera registro no podremos evitar sufrir una irritante avalancha de anuncios. Lo que no sabemos es si estos aparecerán antes de ver los contenidos o si pararán la reproducción cada X tiempo al estilo YouTube, rompiendo la dinámica de las narraciones y, por tanto, pervirtiendo la linealidad de los productos ofertados. Hasta donde sabemos, no hay una funcionalidad premium para acabar con ellos.

Pluto TV aterrizará oficialmente en España en octubre de 2020 e incluirá, de momento, 40 canales de televisión. El objetivo de Viacom es ampliarlos hasta 50 a finales de año y a 100 el año que viene.

###

From eCartelera:

Pluto TV, la plataforma de streaming gratuita, confirma su llegada a España en octubre

La familia crece, pero esta vez no tendrás que abrir la cartera. ViacomCBS Networks International ha confirmado que Pluto TV, su plataforma de streaming gratuita, llegará a España tan pronto como a finales de este mes de octubre. ¿Cómo es que es gratuita? La plataforma incluirá anuncios, pero por parte del usuario no será necesario ni registrarse.

Pluto TV se estructurará en contenido bajo demanda y 40 canales lineales tematizados que aumentarán a 50 a finales de este año y llegarán a los 100 a finales del año que viene. La plataforma promete miles de horas de cine, series, reality shows, deporte, gaming y contenido para niños. Entre las productoras que se han asociado con el servicio de streaming encontramos All3Media, Endemol Shine, Freemantle o Lionsgate, además de las propias empresas que forman parte de ViacomCBS como Paramount Pictures, MTV, Nickelodeon, CBS, Showtime o Comedy Central.

En el catálogo norteamericano podemos encontrar desde series como 'The Americans', 'Broadchurch', 'Sensación de vivir' o 'Queer as Folk' a películas como 'Memento', 'El silencio de los corderos', 'Atrapa a un ladrón', 'El exorcista' o 'Battle Royale'. Por desgracia, no tenemos todavía la lista de contenido que llegará a España, y varias de esas series o películas están disponibles en otras plataformas, así que no podemos confirmar cuáles llegarán a Pluto TV en su lanzamiento. En cuanto tengamos noticias, las compartiremos.

¿Dónde podrás ver Pluto TV?

Pluto TV se podrá disfrutar a través de cualquier navegador desde su web oficial, y contará con aplicaciones en iOS, Android, Apple TV, Android TV y Amazon Fire TV. También se han asociado con Movistar+ para que manejen la publicidad de Pluto TV, pero no han especificado si se podrán ver los contenidos de la plataforma dentro del catálogo de Movistar+ como ocurre por ejemplo con Netflix o Disney+.

###


La plataforma gratuita y sin registro Pluto TV estará disponible en España a finales de octubre

Movistar+ será socio estratégico como comercializador de la publicidad

MADRID, 8 Oct. (EUROPA PRESS) -

Movistar+ ha anunciado este jueves que será el socio estratégico de Pluto TV en su llegada a España, a finales de octubre, como comercializador de la publicidad de la nueva plataforma.

Asimismo, ViacomCBS Networks International ha informado de que Pluto TV, su servicio gratuito y sin registro de streaming con publicidad, estará disponible en España a finales de octubre a través de www.pluto.tv, Apple TV, Android TV, Amazon Fire TV y dispositivos móviles, tanto Android como iOS.

En este sentido, ha puesto de relieve que se trata de la primera AVOD (advertising-based video on demand) completamente gratuita y sin registro del mercado español que, en su lanzamiento, contará con 40 canales exclusivos y tematizados con cine, series, programación infantil, realities, deporte, gaming, etc.

De esta forma, ha concretado que, con periodicidad mensual, se irán sumando nuevos canales a la oferta, llegando a 50 a finales de 2020 y a un total de 100 a finales de 2021. El nuevo servicio incluye, además, un catálogo de contenidos de video on demand, todos ellos también gratuitos.

"Pluto TV cuenta con una innovadora tecnología publicitaria y será Movistar+, la oferta de entretenimiento audiovisual del grupo Telefónica líder en España, la compañía que comercialice la publicidad convencional de la plataforma", ha apuntado la compañía de telecomunicaciones.

Raffaele Annecchino, presidente de ViacomCBS EMEA and Asia, Digital and Mobile Strategy VCNl, ha explicado que "este innovador servicio complementa perfectamente" su oferta lineal y no lineal en España".

Además, ha dicho que "Pluto TV ha demostrado "un gran éxito en EE.UU. y, este lanzamiento en España marca un importante paso en nuestra expansión en Europa, dónde el servicio ya está disponible en Alemania, Suiza, Austria y Reino Unido".

"Estoy convencido de que Pluto TV revolucionará el mercado televisivo y de streaming español, introduciendo un nuevo modelo de consumo de contenido basado en contenido vertical y canales seleccionados. Gracias a nuestro acuerdo con Movistar+ en el lado publicitario, estamos en una excelente posición para impulsar un crecimiento significativo, en paralelo a nuestro objetivo de expandir el contenido hasta 100 canales para finales del 2021", ha subrayado.

Por su parte, el presidente de Movistar+, Sergio Oslé, ha señalado que Pluto TV "añade un nuevo activo a la propuesta de valor de Movistar+ al mercado publicitario". "Un modelo basado en presencia en entornos muy cualitativos, de plena confianza para las marcas, de calidad premium que les ofrece nuevas formas de estar en la nueva tv, la de contenidos audiovisuales multiplataforma", ha manifestado.

"Seguimos trabajando por la transformación digital de la publicidad en tv; el entorno premium y seguro se enriquece con formatos y modelos de compra que son más propios del mundo digital. Esta alianza supone un paso en la innovación y la mejora continua de nuestras capacidades como plataforma de plataformas y como comercializadora de publicidad", ha recalcado Oslé.

###


H/T: Special thanks to @RegularCapital for the news!

Follow NickALive! on Twitter, Tumblr, Reddit, via RSS, on Instagram, and/or Facebook for the latest Nickelodeon Spain News and Highlights!