Nickelodeon's New "Sam & Cat", "SpongeBob SquarePants" Top All TV With Kids For Nick USA

Nickelodeon has announced in the following press release, from TVbytheNumbers, the exciting Nick News that Nickelodeon USA continued fueling its ratings momentum with the latest addition to its live-action lineup, "Sam & Cat", and the most-watched animated series for the past 12 years, "SpongeBob SquarePants", both of which topped with kids this week. "SpongeBob SquarePants" was the number-one series for the week with kids 2-11 and averaged a 5.1/1.7 million K2-11 (+38%), and 3.2 million total viewers; and "Sam & Cat" was the number-one live-action program with K2-11, averaging a 4.7/1.6 million K2-11 (+2%) and 2.8 million total viewers.

Nickelodeon also marked its 21st consecutive week of year-over year gains, posting a 2.8/924,000, up +8% among kids 2-11, and averaging 1.7 million total viewers.

Original Nickelodeon Press Release:

NICK’S NEW SAM & CAT, SpongeBob SQUAREPANTS TOP ALL TV WITH KIDS

Nickelodeon Posts 21 Straight Weeks of Growth

NEW YORK–June 18, 2013–Nickelodeon continued fueling its ratings momentum with the latest addition to its live-action lineup, Sam & Cat, and the most-watched animated series for the past 12 years, SpongeBob SquarePants, both of which topped with kids this week. SpongeBob SquarePants was the number-one series for the week with kids 2-11 and averaged a 5.1/1.7 million K2-11 (+38%), and 3.2 million total viewers; and Sam & Cat was the number-one live-action program with K2-11, averaging a 4.7/1.6 million K2-11 (+2%) and 2.8 million total viewers.

Nickelodeon also marked its 21st consecutive week of year-over year gains, posting a 2.8/924,000, up +8% among kids 2-11, and averaging 1.7 million total viewers.

Tags: Sam & Cat Ratings

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Nickelodeon Announces Cartwheel Kids As Master Toy Licensee For Hit, Reimagined CGI-Animated Preschool Series, "Peter Rabbit"

Nickelodeon has today (Tuesday 18th June 2013) announced in the following press release, from PRNewswire, a multi-year master toy license agreement for Cartwheel Kids to manufacture, distribute and market a line of toys and products based on the hit, reimagined CG-animated preschool series, "Peter Rabbit". Bowing in Fall (Autumn) 2014, the product line will span multiple categories including plush toys, figures and playsets, role play items and seasonal products. The new line embodies a fresh approach to "Peter Rabbit" and will deliver themes and stories that focus on education, adventure, friendship and humor, allowing preschoolers to play out the tales of Peter and his friends at home.

Original Nickelodeon Press Release:

Nickelodeon Announces Cartwheel Kids As Master Toy Licensee For Hit, Reimagined CG-Animated Preschool Series, Peter Rabbit

Highly Anticipated Product Collection Set to Launch Spring 2014

LAS VEGAS, June 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Nickelodeon today announced a multi-year master toy license agreement for Cartwheel Kids to manufacture, distribute and market a line of toys and products based on the hit, reimagined CG-animated preschool series, Peter Rabbit. Bowing in fall 2014, the product line will span multiple categories including plush toys, figures and playsets, role play items and seasonal products. The new line embodies a fresh approach to Peter Rabbit and will deliver themes and stories that focus on education, adventure, friendship and humor, allowing preschoolers to play out the tales of Peter and his friends at home.

"The success of Nickelodeon's reimagined Peter Rabbit series has given us the opportunity to expand our connection with our audience by developing a brand-new line of endearing and engaging products," Manuel Torres, Senior Vice President Global Toys and Electronics for Nickelodeon Consumer Products. "Cartwheel Kids are a team of talented industry veterans who have a finger on the pulse of toy trends and innovation; they truly capture the heart and imagination of the series with a collection of products today's kids and their parents will fall in love with."

"Cartwheel Kids is thrilled to partner with Nickelodeon on such an exciting re imagination of Peter Rabbit, a beloved, classic children's brand," said Vince Klaseus, President of Cartwheel Kids. "It enables us to leverage our collective years of experience in preschool toys and fulfill our mission of delivering quality toys rooted in imaginative play and storytelling."

In February, Nickelodeon debuted the CG-animated preschool series Peter Rabbit to impressive ratings, ranking as the network's highest-rated preschool series premiere since 2011. The series is a reimagining of the popular Beatrix Potter children's books based on the beloved Peter Rabbit character, which have sold over 250 million copies worldwide and been translated into 35 languages. The series follows the adventures of Peter Rabbit and his best friends Benjamin Bunny and Lily Bobtail. Peter Rabbit features educational goals that encourage preschoolers to learn problem-solving and interpersonal skills, self-efficacy, resilience and fosters an interest in nature. The series airs regularly weekdays at 12 p.m. (ET/PT) on Nickelodeon.

About Cartwheel Kids

Cartwheel Kids LLC is wholly owned subsidiary of Xcessory International, and designs and manufactures unique and innovative playthings for children ages infant to tween including preschool toys, figures, play sets, plush, dress-up, role-play, seasonal and novelty items, and more. Led by a team of acclaimed industry veterans including Vince Klaseus, Len Mazzocco and Daniel Setton, Cartwheel Kids offers unparalleled expertise in product design and development as well as brand-building and franchise management.

Cartwheel Kids is committed to delivering quality toys rooted in imaginative play and storytelling, targeting parents and grandparents with both mass and mid-tier specialty offerings. For more information, visit http://www.cartwheelkids.com.

About Nickelodeon

Nickelodeon, now in its 34th 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 almost 100 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 18 consecutive years. For more information or artwork, visit www.nickpress.com. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB).

SOURCE Nickelodeon

RELATED LINKS
http://www.nick.com.

Nickelodeon And GUND Partner For New "Peter Rabbit" Plush Collection

Nickelodeon has announced in the following press release, from PRNewswire, the Nick News that Nickelodeon, one of the world's leading entertainment brands for kids and families, and GUND® have today (Tuesday 18th June 2013) launched a brand new plush collection based on the re-imagined, CG-animated preschool series "Peter Rabbit".

The new specialty line will feature plush of all sizes made with the finest fabrics that stay true to the essence of each character. Peter, Benjamin and Lily will make their debut in spring 2014.

Nickelodeon USA debuted the CG-animated preschool series "Peter Rabbit" to impressive ratings in February 2013, ranking as the network's highest-rated preschool series premiere since 2011. The series is a reimagining of the popular Beatrix Potter children's books based on the beloved Peter Rabbit character, which have sold over 250 million copies worldwide and been translated into 35 languages. The series follows the adventures of Peter Rabbit and his best friends Benjamin Bunny and Lily Bobtail.

"Peter Rabbit" features educational goals that encourage preschoolers to learn problem-solving and interpersonal skills, self-efficacy, resilience, positive re-framing and fosters an interest in nature. The series currently airs regularly weekdays at 12 p.m. (ET/PT) on Nick USA.

Original Nickelodeon Press Release:

Nickelodeon and GUND Introduce Peter Rabbit Specialty Plush Collection

LAS VEGAS, June 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Nickelodeon and GUND® today announced the launch of a plush collection based on the re-imagined, CG-animated preschool series Peter Rabbit. The new specialty line will feature plush of all sizes made with the finest fabrics that stay true to the essence of each character. Peter, Benjamin and Lily will make their debut in spring 2014.

"We are excited to partner with GUND as it brings together the best of both worlds: a legacy of the best crafted soft toys, and Nickelodeon's history of some of the most memorable series and characters," said Manuel Torres, Senior Vice President, Global Toys and Consumer Electronics, Nickelodeon Consumer Products. "The stunningly precise plush designs bring the series and characters to life in a magical way that is sure to create new huggable memories with Peter Rabbit fans."

"GUND is thrilled to be partnering with Nickelodeon again," commented Sally Drewes GUND's Marketing Director. "Peter Rabbit is the perfect fit for GUND. Classic and whimsical, Peter and his friends will bring a special dimension to GUND's product offering."

In February, Nickelodeon debuted the CG-animated preschool series Peter Rabbit to impressive ratings, ranking as the network's highest-rated preschool series premiere since 2011. The series is a reimagining of the popular Beatrix Potter children's books based on the beloved Peter Rabbit character, which have sold over 250 million copies worldwide and been translated into 35 languages. The series follows the adventures of Peter Rabbit and his best friends Benjamin Bunny and Lily Bobtail. Peter Rabbit features educational goals that encourage preschoolers to learn problem-solving and interpersonal skills, self-efficacy, resilience, positive re-framing and fosters an interest in nature. The series airs regularly weekdays at 12 p.m. (ET/PT) on Nickelodeon.

About GUND®

GUND®, a division of Enesco, LLC, is known worldwide for its top quality, soft and huggable plush designs and gift products. Award-winning GUND® products appeal to all ages, from infants up, and are perfect for both play and collecting. The 115-year old company is based in Edison, New Jersey, and distributes throughout the United States and Canada as well as in Europe, Japan, Australia and South America. GUND® products may be found in gift, specialty, toy, book, museum and department stores and many other retail outlets. Please visit www.gund.com

About Nickelodeon

Nickelodeon, now in its 34th 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 almost 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, VIA.B).

SOURCE Nickelodeon

RELATED LINKS
http://www.nick.com.

Saban Brands Launches eCommerce Sites For Power Rangers And Paul Frank

Saban Brands has announced today (Tuesday 18th June 2013) in the following press release, from PRNewswire, the news that Saban Brands has launched two new online shops for its Power Rangers and Paul Frank brands, featuring products spanning all categories from toys and apparel to accessories and collectables. These new online stores, which are currently in beta, provide fans in the United States with 24/7 access to Power Rangers and Paul Frank merchandise in one centralized place. Each shop features new products, best selling items and more.

The user-friendly eCommerce websites pull merchandise from each brand's online retailers and curate it in one location. When fans browse the product on the Power Rangers and Paul Frank Shop websites and are ready to purchase an item, they are then connected to Saban's various retail partners' websites to purchase the product directly. These online stores further establish Saban Brands' current Power Rangers and Paul Frank websites as the premier online destination for fans.

The Power Rangers and Paul Frank brands are merchandised through extensive licensing programs, with Saban partnering with hundreds of licensees globally. While both Power Rangers and Paul Frank products can be found in major markets around the world, the new online stores only add to the brands' continued expansion.

You can check out the new sites and start shopping for Power Rangers and Paul Frank products now at shop.powerrangers.com and paulfrank.com!:

Saban Brands Launches eCommerce Sites for Power Rangers and Paul Frank

New online stores offer a wide variety of merchandise for both brands

LOS ANGELES, June 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Saban Brands has launched two new eCommerce sites for its Power Rangers and Paul Frank brands, featuring products spanning all categories from toys and apparel to accessories and collectables. These new online stores, which are currently in beta, provide fans in the United States with 24/7 access to Power Rangers and Paul Frank merchandise in one centralized place. Each shop features new products, best selling items and more.

(Download Image - Saban Brands logo. (PRNewsFoto/Saban Brands): http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130617/CL32849LOGO )

The user-friendly eCommerce websites pull merchandise from each brand's online retailers and curate it in one location. When fans browse the product on the Power Rangers and Paul Frank Shop websites and are ready to purchase an item, they are then connected to our various retail partners' websites to purchase the product directly. These online stores further establish Saban Brands' current Power Rangers and Paul Frank websites as the premier online destination for fans.

"Our new eCommerce sites provide Power Rangers and Paul Frank fans with easy access to browse all of our hottest products in one place," said Elie Dekel, President of Saban Brands. "From there, shoppers have the ability to choose from which of our online retail partners they purchase their items. We're pleased to offer this streamlined online shopping experience for fans!"

The Power Rangers and Paul Frank brands are merchandised through extensive licensing programs, with Saban partnering with hundreds of licensees globally. While both Power Rangers and Paul Frank products can be found in major markets around the world, the new online stores only add to the brands' continued expansion.

To check out the new sites and start shopping for Power Rangers and Paul Frank products now, please visit shop.powerrangers.com and paulfrank.com.

About Saban's Power Rangers

Saban's Power Rangers franchise is the brainchild of Haim Saban, creator and producer of the original Mighty Morphin Power Rangers hit series that launched in 1993. Following its introduction, Power Rangers quickly became the most-watched children's television program in the United States and remains the No.1 boys live-action series on television. The series follows the adventures of a group of ordinary young people who "morph" into superheroes and save the world from evil. It is seen in more than 150 markets around the world, translated into numerous languages, and is a mainstay in the most prominent international children's programming blocks. The Power Rangers franchise is celebrating its 20th Anniversary throughout 2013, which started with the launch of its newest season Power Rangers Megaforce on Nickelodeon and other broadcasters worldwide. Power Rangers LLC, which licenses and merchandises the Power Rangers brand, is an affiliate of Saban Brands. For more information, visit www.powerrangers.com.

About Paul Frank

Acquired in 2010 by Saban Brands, Paul Frank began in 1997 as an independent accessories company in a Southern California beach town. The brand has steadily grown to become a globally recognized, iconic brand that features artistic and entertaining designs inspired by a love of avant-garde, modern influences and everyday objects. By creating relationships through exciting collaborations and strategic licensing partnerships, Paul Frank merchandise includes apparel and accessories for all ages, books, stationery, eyewear, home decor, bicycles and more. To see what's new and exciting at Paul Frank, visit www.paulfrank.com.

About Saban Brands

Formed in 2010 as an affiliate of Saban Capital Group, Saban Brands (SB) was established to acquire and develop a world-class portfolio of properties and capitalize on the company's experience, track record and capabilities in growing and monetizing consumer brands through content, media and marketing. SB applies a global omni-channel management approach to enhancing and extending its brands in markets worldwide and to consumers of all ages. The company provides full-service management, marketing, promotion and strategic business development for its intellectual properties including comprehensive strategies unique to each brand, trademark and copyright management and enforcement, creative design, retail development, direct-to-consumer initiatives and specialized property extensions. SB is led by a superior management team with decades of experience in media, content creation, branding, licensing, marketing and finance. SB's portfolio of properties currently includes Power Rangers, Paul Frank, Vortexx, Zui.com, The Playforge, Julius Jr., Digimon Fusion and Popples. For more information, visit www.sabanbrands.com.

Media Contact:
Kelsey Lynch
(310) 203-5875
KLynch@sabanbrands.com

SOURCE Saban Brands

RELATED LINKS
http://www.sabanbrands.com.

Charter Completes All-Digital Network Upgrade In North Texas; Adds Nickelodeon HD

Charter Communications has announced in the following press release, from PRNewswire, the news that the American cable company has successfully completed a four-month, all-digital upgrade of its North Texas, USA network for customers in Fort Worth and 40 surrounding communities.

From Cleburne to Keller and Weatherford to the Park Cities, Charter customers can now enjoy 141 high definition (HD) channels – more than double their previous HD lineup – as part of the largest HD launch in Charter's history.

Nickelodeon HD, BET HD, MSNBC, Travel Channel HD, CMT HD and The Longhorn Network are just a few of the more than 80 new HD channels now available in crystal-clear digital picture and sound. Plus, Charter has increased its Video On Demand (VOD) offering to a total of more than 12,000 VOD options, including 2,500 HD titles and new Spanish-language selections:

Charter Completes All-Digital Network Upgrade in North Texas

Customers now have more high definition, Video On Demand options

FORT WORTH, Texas, June 18, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Charter has successfully completed a four-month, all-digital upgrade of its North Texas network for customers in Fort Worth and 40 surrounding communities.

(Download Image - Charter Logo. (PRNewsFoto/Charter Communications, Inc.): http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110526/AQ10195LOGO)

From Cleburne to Keller and Weatherford to the Park Cities, Charter customers are now enjoying 141 high definition (HD) channels – more than double their previous HD lineup – as part of the largest HD launch in Charter's history.

ABC Family, BET, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, FOX News Channel, MSNBC, Travel Channel, CMT and The Longhorn Network are just a few of the more than 80 new HD channels now available in crystal-clear digital picture and sound.

Plus, Charter has increased its Video On Demand (VOD) offering to a total of more than 12,000 VOD options, including 2,500 HD titles and new Spanish-language selections.

"More than 500 Charter employees – network engineers to customer care representatives – have come together over the past four months to make this all-digital effort a resounding success for our customers," said John Owen, Charter's regional vice president in Fort Worth. "By removing analog signals from our network, we gained the bandwidth and ability to bring so much more value to our customers. With a digital set-top box on every television, our customers now have a host of new and exciting digital entertainment options available at the touch of a button."

In North Texas, the all-digital upgrade is just one part of more than $40 million in improvements being made to Charter's network. In addition, the company is replacing hundreds of miles of aging cable and making other core infrastructure improvements that will continue into 2014.

Customers in the Fort Worth area still have time to take advantage of special offers to receive set-top boxes at no cost. Visit www.charter.com/digitalnow or call 1-888-GET-CHARTER (1-888-438-2427) for more information.

About Charter

Charter (NASDAQ: CHTR) is a leading broadband communications company and the fourth-largest cable operator in the United States. Charter provides a full range of advanced broadband services, including advanced Charter TV® video entertainment programming, Charter Internet® access, and Charter Phone®. Charter Business® similarly provides scalable, tailored, and cost-effective broadband communications solutions to business organizations, such as business-to-business Internet access, data networking, business telephone, video and music entertainment services, and wireless backhaul. Charter's advertising sales and production services are sold under the Charter Media® brand. More information about Charter can be found at charter.com.

SOURCE Charter

RELATED LINKS
http://www.charter.com.