Nick At Nite USA Moves Forward Premiere Date Of Jerry Trainor's Brand New Family Comedy Series "Wendell And Vinnie"; To Debut Saturday 16th February 2013

Nickelodeon has announced in the following Nickelodeon Press Release, from Broadway World's 'TV World' news column, the Nickelodeon News that Nickelodeon USA's nighttime programming block, Nick at Nite (stylized as nick@nite), has moved forward the air date of the premiere episode of the networks brand new live-action family comedy show called "Wendell & Vinnie" and will now start to premiere and show "Wendell & Vinnie", which stars and is produced by Nickelodeon Star and "iCarly" actor Jerry Trainor, on Saturday 16th February 2013 at 8.00pm (ET/PT)!

Nick@Nite's all-new comedy series "Wendell & Vinnie" is a multi-camera scripted half-hour sitcom that follows 30-year-old Vinnie Bassett (Trainor) living the life of a carefree bachelor, when he suddenly becomes the legal guardian of his precocious, wise-beyond-his-years nephew, Wendell (Buddy Handleson, "Shake It Up") forming a hysterical odd-couple family dynamic. Nicole Sullivan ("Rita Rocks", "MadTV", "The King of Queens", "The Penguins of Madagascar") also stars as Vinnie's older unlucky-in-love sister, Wilma, with Haley Strode ("Gangster Squad") as Vinnie's newly divorced neighbor and love interest, Taryn. The series will then be broadcast regularly on Saturdays at 8pm (ET/PT):

WENDELL & VINNIE to Premiere Next Week on Nickelodeon, 2/16

After five successful seasons on the groundbreaking series iCarly, Jerry Trainor steps into his first starring and producing role on Nick's brand-new live-action family comedy, Wendell & Vinnie, premiering Saturday, Feb. 16, at 8p.m. (ET/PT). A multi-camera scripted half-hour, the series follows 30-year-old Vinnie Bassett (Trainor) living the life of a carefree bachelor, when he suddenly becomes the legal guardian of his precocious, wise-beyond-his-years nephew, Wendell (Buddy Handleson, Shake It Up) forming a hysterical odd-couple family dynamic. Nicole Sullivan (Rita Rocks, MadTV) also stars as Vinnie's older unlucky-in-love sister, Wilma, with Haley Strode (Gangster Squad) as Vinnie's newly divorced neighbor and love interest, Taryn. The series will air regularly on Saturdays at 8p.m. (ET/PT).

"Jerry's infectious Style of wacky comedy made him a favorite with kids and families over the past five years on iCarly, and this new family series from the Emmy award-winning sitcom veteran Jay Kogen will showcase his incredible comedic talents to an even broader audience," said Russell Hicks, Nickelodeon's President of Content Development and Production. "We look forward to the smart humor that develops from this collaboration."

Wendell & Vinnie follows Vinnie Bassett, proprietor of a pop culture memorabilia store who only takes breaks to read comic books and play video games. His bachelor life comes to a halt when he assumes guardianship of his incredibly intelligent and mature nephew, Wendell. They soon find that 12-year-old Wendell may be just the parent Vinnie needs. This season will find lighthearted Vinnie helping socially awkward Wendell - and vice versa - including Vinnie navigating through PTA politics to help Wendell build a school garden, a sleepover that goes awry when Vinnie becomes the center of attention and Wendell sent to detention after he helps Vinnie get closer to his vice principal. Wendell & Vinnie will also feature special guest appearances by Dan Castellaneta (The Simpsons), Robin Givens (House of Payne) and Willie Garson (Sex and the City).

In support of the Feb. 16 premiere, NickatNite.com has launched its Wendell & Vinnie show site, which includes trailers, character information, sneak peek photo galleries and message boards as well as a "Are You A Wendell or a Vinnie?" quiz. Full episodes will also be made available after each premiere. Beginning Feb. 18, Wendell & Vinnie episodes will be available for purchase on iTunes, Amazon Instant Video, Xbox Video, Vudu, PlayStation Store and Samsung Media Hub. Viewers can keep up with the show on Twitter by following the Nick@Nite handle at @nickatnitetv and by liking the Wendell & Vinnie Facebook pages.

Star and producer Jerry Trainor is best known for his role as Spencer, the off-centered aspiring artist and brother/guardian of his teenage sister Carly on Nickelodeon's mega-hit television series iCarly. Trainor also currently stars in the hit Nickelodeon animated comedy series T.U.F.F. Puppy as The Voice of Dudley Puppy. Additionally, he starred alongside his iCarly co-star Jennette McCurdy in the 2010 Nickelodeon original television movie Best Player. After moving to Los Angeles, Trainor landed a three-episode arc on MTV's Undressed and has also appeared in the feature film Donnie Darko starring Jake Gyllenhaal before going on to guest-star in episodes of Malcolm in the Middle, ER and Angel. He also played a recurring character as an audio-visual geek in Crossing Jordan before winning the career catalyst role of erratic usher Crazy Steve in Drake & Josh.

The series is executive produced by Emmy Award-winning Jay Kogen and Aaron Kaplan. A seasoned TV comedy writer/producer, Kogen, along with friend Wallace Wolodarsky, started writing as a team on the critically acclaimed The Tracey Ullman Show where, in four seasons, they rose to producers, received three Emmy nominations and garnered an Emmy Award. Soon after, the two helped launch The Simpsons, where they became supervising producers and worked on the show for the first five seasons, helping to create and develop many of the regular characters including Mr. Burns, Smithers, Otto, Mrs. Krabappel and Krusty. Kogen also wrote and co-executive produced Frasier, winning two more Emmy Awards and a Humanitas Award. Since then, he has spent the last few decades writing, producing and directing shows such as Malcolm in the Middle, Everybody Loves Raymond, The George Lopez Show, Wanda At Large, The Class and Nickelodeon's The Troop. Most recently, Kogen was co-executive producer of Happily Divorced for TV Land.

Aaron Kaplan is the Founder and CEO of Kapital Entertainment, a self-funded, truly independent Production Company. Since its formation in 2009, Kapital Entertainment has become a prominent leader in the media industry, known for its vast array of television, digital and film content. In just three years, Kapital Entertainment has had six television projects ordered to series including The Neighbors on ABC and The Inbetweeners on MTV. He also executive produced FOX's Terra NOVA with Steven Spielberg and Peter Chernin.

Nick at Nite is Nickelodeon's nighttime programming block that features popular hit family comedies including the Emmy Award-winning series Friends, My Wife & Kids, George Lopez, The Nanny, Yes, Dear and most recently, See Dad Run starring Scott Baio.

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 almost 100 million households and has been the number-one-rated basic cable network for 18 consecutive years. Nickelodeon and all related titles, characters and logos are trademarks of Viacom Inc. (NASDAQ: VIA, VIAB).

Playmates Toys To Reveal Expanded Toy Line Inspired By Nickelodeon's Hit CG-Animated "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" At American International Toy Fair 2013

Playmates Toys has announced the Nickelodeon / "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" news in the following Press Release, from PRNewswire, that the toy manufacturer is set to unveil the action-packed next generation of the "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" toy line, inspired by Nickelodeon's hit brand new CGI-animated show. New elements, including the mysterious Ooze substance and Turtle-loving pizza, have been added to the product line and will be displayed at the American International Toy Fair in New York City, February 10-13, 2013, Booth #1525.

Which upcoming "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles" toy are you most looking forward to? Did you see the Playmates Toys' new TMNT merchandise at the 2013 American International Toy Fair? Let NickALive! know on Twitter, Tumblr, Google+, and/or Facebook!:

Rising From The Sewer In All-New Ways, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Are Ready For Ninja Action

Playmates Toys to Reveal Expanded Toy Line Inspired by Nickelodeon's Hit CG-Animated Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles at American International Toy Fair

EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Feb. 8, 2013 /Playmates Toys PR via PRNewswire/ -- Playmates Toys is set to unveil the action-packed next generation of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles toy line, inspired by Nickelodeon's hit new CG-animated show. New elements, including the mysterious Ooze substance and Turtle-loving pizza, have been added to the product line and will be displayed at the American International Toy Fair in New York City, February 10-13, 2013, Booth #1525.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles premiered on Nickelodeon on Sept. 29, 2012 and was an instant hit, drawing almost 12 million viewers during its premiere weekend. Coinciding with the series, Playmates Toys, the mastermind responsible for the successful toy line over the last three decades, introduced a new line which became one of the top action figure brands by the end of 2012.

Turtles were on a slew of Holiday "Hot Toy Lists," and the Turtles Shellraiser group vehicle, along with the property as a whole, were both selected as finalists in the 2013 Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards, a prominent awards program from the Toy Industry Association.

"The wildly successful launch of the toy line last year further proved the incredible enduring appeal of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles," said Karl Aaronian , Senior Vice President of Marketing, Playmates Toys. "The Turtles are true timeless heroes to kids and Playmates Toys is delighted to continue developing toys that capture the unique ninja play experience for a new generation of kids to enjoy."

"Playmates has done an amazing job at capturing the look, humor, action and depth of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series into great play experiences for kids and fans of all ages," said Manuel Torres , Senior Vice President, Global Toys and Consumer Electronics, Nickelodeon. "The tremendous success of the series, coupled with the outstanding launch of our toys makes us excited to introduce our second installment of products to wow our fans."

Playmates Toys has added new products packed with Ninja fun to the line, including all-new action figures, a line of Ooze-infused products, remote-controlled products, playsets, vehicles and role play gear.

Highlights of the 2013 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles line from Playmates Toys include the following:

Action Figures

New waves of Basic Action Figures will be introduced throughout the year, including Leatherhead, Baxter Stockman, Cockroach Terminator, as well as Stealth Tech Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo. The highly detailed basic action figures contain more than 12 points of articulation and are uniquely sculpted, with heights ranging from 4.25" to 5.5." Each figure is compatible with most of the vehicles and playsets in the line.

Deluxe Action Figures

With the ability to fling out projectiles to take out the enemy, the Flingers Deluxe Action Figures come fully equipped and ready for battle! Kids simply load the different projectiles into the backpacks of each figure, roll the figures across a hard surface and watch as the contents of their backpacks launch! Each figure comes decked out in battle armor and with personal projectiles. Leonardo launches 10 sewer lids, Michelangelo includes 10 pizza pie discs, Donatello includes 3 Bo Staffs and Raphael includes 3 Sai weapons.

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!

Classic Collection

The Classic Collection Action Figures reflect the look of the original Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles from the 80's TV show. The assortment is expanding this year to include the Turtles arch-nemsis' Bebop and Rocksteady. Each figure stands 6 inches tall, features more than 30 points of articulation and is authentically detailed to appeal to the true action figure collector. Each figure will come with its core Ninja weapons and a personalized sewer lid cover name base.

Ooze Segment

Get ready for ultimate Ooze action with the Mutagen Ooze Action Figures! Outfitted in their Ooze Bustin' gear, the Turtles have discovered a way to safely handle the Ooze (the mysterious substance that transformed the Turtles from pets to ninjas) and fling it back at the Kraang and the many mutants. Each Turtle is fully articulated and comes with a backpack and scoop that kids can load up with Mutagenic Ooze (Ooze sold separately). Kids just push down the plunger to squirt the Ooze into the scoop and then they can fling the Ooze at the bad guys! Figures included are Ooze Chuckin' Mikey, Ooze Launchin' Leo, Ooze Scoopin' Donnie and Ooze Tossin' Raph.

Handle the Mutagen Ooze Canisters with care! Ooze is the mysterious substance that transformed Leonardo, Michaelangelo, Raphael and Donatello from pet turtles into the heroes in a half-shell that they are today - but also created their many mutant friends and foes. Each 2.4 oz canister of Mutagen Ooze comes with a bonus mini Turtle inside. Kids can collect all four and can use this creepy compound across the entire Mutagen Ooze figure and vehicle segment.

Cruise the Ooze with the Mutagen Ooze Sewer Cruiser, a fast-floating wet ski, complete with its own slick defense system - a cooler contraption to diffuse the Ooze and ice any Kraang in pursuit. The Sewer Cruiser floats so it can be used on land or in water. It is compatible with most of the Turtles basic action figures (sold separately).

Turtle-ize the skies with the Mutagen Ooze Drop Copter, an airborne assault helicopter, complete with twin tubs to diffuse the Ooze on the Foot Clan. Fast spinning propeller blades and a real working winch help the Turtles race to the rescue and get out of danger quickly. The Drop Copter is compatible with most of the Turtles basic action figures (sold separately).

Remote Control Vehicles

Drive the Turtles into their next battle with the Ninja Control Shellraiser, a full function, remote control vehicle. From rail-riding to street-surfing, Donatello's customized combat creation packs a powerful punch. With the green team all aboard, the Turtles will cream the Kraang with a frenzy of fast-firing sewer covers. This vehicle comes with full-steering remote-control action, as well as the ability to control the rapid-fire sewer-cover cannon. The Ninja Control Shellraiser is compatible with most Turtles basic action figures (sold separately).

Turtle Vehicles

As seen in the hit TV show, the Patrol Buggies are individually customized and ready for action! Two assortments are available; Leo and Donnie's Patrol Buggy and Mikey and Raph's Patrol Buggy. With Leo and Donnie's Patrol Buggy, kids can run the Foot off the road with Leo's rocket "grenade" or scare them to the sidewalk with Donnie's Kraang-crushing big wheels. With Raph and Mikey's Patrol Buggies, kids can blast the Foot Clan from the fast lane! They can run Dogpound out of town with Raph's reloadable road rash missile or crush Fishface's robo-feet with Mikey's mighty monster wheels. All four vehicles can also snap together to become the ULTIMATE MEGA PATROL BUGGY! The Patrol Buggies are compatible with most of the Turtles basic action figures (sold separately).

It's triple turbo terror as the Kraang launch an aerial alien assault with the Hover Drone. Will the Turtles strike back and repel the robo raiders? With triple-turning turbines and two spring loaded missiles, the Kraang are on the attack. The Hover Drone is compatible with most Turtles basic action figures (sold separately).

From the streets to the sewers of NYC, the Ninja AT3 vehicle is equipped to handle any terrain as the Turtles seek out and battle against the evil Foot! The AT3 is the latest of Donatello's vehicle creations and comes equipped with a powerful spring loaded missile projectile to stop Shredder and the Foot in their tracks. The AT3 is compatible with most of the Turtles basic action figures and comes with an exclusive Leonardo action figure decked out in his moto-cross riding outfit, helmet and gloves.

Playsets

A classic theme for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and re-established in the new Nickelodeon CG-animated series, Playmates Toys has combined the compact look and feel of a pizza box with a fully featured playset in the new Anchovy Alley Pop-Up Pizza Playset. The pizza box pops open into a subway scene that stands 18 inches tall. Ninja action features in the playset include a portable pizza oven that flings fresh pizzas, floor traps, a trick sewer cover that throws the bad guys for a loop and an abandoned subway tunnel. The playset is compatible with most Turtles basic action figures (sold separately).

Role Play

Now the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are available at your finger tips with the Turtle-Comm! As seen in the hit TV show, the Turtle-Comm is the Turtles go-to device to communicate with each other. The Turtle-Comm lets kids call the Turtles, or the Turtles will even call them. All four Turtles even have their own unique play patterns. Go on missions with Leonardo, train with Raphael, listen to jokes from Michelangelo and answer Turtle trivia questions from Donatello.

The transformation into a hero-in-a-half shell is not complete without having the authentic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Shell! This tough as nails, one size fits all, PVC plastic Turtle shell includes adjustable straps that fit over the shoulders and around the waist. The shell is compatible with the Ninja Combat Gear role play weapons and includes two holsters on the right and left backside of the shell to hold kids' weapons as they get ready for battle. The shell also includes an inner handle so kids can remove the shell from their back and use it as a front shield.

Kids can immediately transform themselves into their favorite Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle with the Ninja Turtles Deluxe Mask Assortment! This deluxe assortment includes masks for Leonardo, Raphael, Donatello and Michelangelo just as they appear in the hit TV show. The one size fits all masks include the Turtles signature colored bandana, an elastic strap and a soft rubber inner mask for comfort and fit.

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.

Dutch Telco KPN Launches New Pay TV Service In Belgium Called Snow; Includes Nickelodeon And Nick Jr.

The television news website TBI Vision is reporting the news that the Dutch Telecommunications company KPN has launched a brand new pay TV service in Belgium called "Snow". The service, available in French and Flemish versions, offers 33 channels, including Viacom's Nickelodeon, Nick Jr. and MTV, plus public broadcast channels from France and the UK, including BBC One, Two, Three, Four, CBeebies, BBC HD, BBC World News, BBC Entertainment and CBBC:

New Belgian pay TV service launches with raft of intn’l channels

Dutch telco KPN has launched a new pay TVservice in Belgium, Snow.

The service will combine TV, internet and telephony in a bundled offering, competing with existing providers Telenet and Belgacom.

The Snow service will be marketed separately from KPN Belgium’s existing mobile telecom offering in the country, Base. The service offers 33 channels including public broadcast channels from France and the UK

Snow went live yesterday and includes French and Flemish options. The French service includes all the channels of UK broadcaster the BBC – BBC One, Two, Three, Four, CBeebies, BBC HD, BBC World News, BBC Entertainment and CBBC – as well as France 2, 3, 4 and 5, TF1, LCI and TV Breizh from France, Belgian Francophone channels La Une, La Deux and La Trois, RTL TVI, Club RTL, AB3, MCM één, Canvas, Ketnet, OPTV, Trace Sports, Viacom’s MTV, Nickelodeon and Nick Jr, Disney, Disney Junior and Disney XD, Turner’s CNN and Cartoon Network, National Geographic Channel and Discovery Channel.

The Flemish version excludes France’s public channels but includes Flemish public channels, OP12, VTM, VTM Kzoom, 2BE, Vier, Vijf, Vitaya, Acht, Jim and TMF.

Ian McDonough, senior vice-president and general manager EMEA, BBC Worldwide Channels, said: “The BBC channels are well-known for setting the standard for high quality television and this is another exciting chapter in the expansion of our portfolio throughout Europe. We are proud to offer so much of our content to Belgian viewers through this new agreement.”

A triple-play pack costs €39 a month, while internet and fixed phone together without TV is available for €35. Additional channels are available both in Flemish and French versions either à la carte or in mini-packs, with a kids pack available for €6. Additional multi-screen offerings are available €3, with additional SnowBox set-tops available for second screens for €6 a month.

KPN began marketing the service by sending individuals dressed as snowmen to the headquarters of rival services Telenet, Begacom and VOO bearing placards with the slogan “All you need is Snow”.

Earlier this week, KPN revealed that it had 1.766 million TV customers in the Netherlands at the end of December, up from 1.4 million a year earlier. The number included just over one million IPTV subscribers, almost double the total for 2011, while Digitenne digital-terrestrial customers declined from 827,000 to 754,000.

Also, from Broadband TV News:

KPN goes snowballing in Belgium

KPN Group’s Belgium subsidiary Base has today launched Snow, a new brand with which the company aims to carve out a position as a challenger in the triple play market.

Snow is offering television, internet and fixed-line telephony in Belgium in competition with Telenet, Belgacom and VOO.

Broadband TV News reported the news first last October.

The company claims to offer “a transparent product formula and a competitive price, that enables customers to pay for what they really want, instead of paying for an offering that many consumers barely use.”

“KPN Group Belgium has already established its role as a challenger in the mobile market. Over the last six years, the prices of mobile telephony have fallen by over 40%. In the same period, the price of Internet and TV actually increased by 21%. The market for digital television needs a strong challenger.”

KPN’s Snow offers an entry-level package of digital TV, internet and fixed-line telephony for EUR39 a month, with no extra charges for a cable or telephone contract.

The basic TV tier for Dutch-speaking customers has 32 of the most watched channels and 33 in the basic French language tier. In addition, a customer can buy additional channels à la carte.

The sign-up fee of EUR199 (with an introductory price of EU99) includes installation, use of modem and the Snowbox (set-top box).

KPN launched its introduction campaign in Belgium by placing snowmen in front of the offices of the companies it challenges, such as Telenet and Belgacom. Telenet immediately responded by dredding the KNP snowmen with Telenet clothing!

Adventure Abounds In Peter Rabbit, Nickelodeon's New Animated Preschool Series Premiering On Nick USA Tuesday, Feb. 19, At 12 PM (ET/PT)

Nickelodeon has announced in the following Nickelodeon Press Release from PRNewswire the exciting Nickelodeon News that Nickelodeon USA, also known as Nick, will start to premiere and show the brand new CGI-animated preschool series "Peter Rabbit" on Tuesday, February 19, at 12 pm (ET/PT)!

The series follows Peter, a mischievous, charming and brave rabbit who overcomes obstacles, outwits predators and avoids danger. Clever, resilient and funny, Peter Rabbit wants to grow up to be just like his late father and carries his journal (a guide to everything you to need to know to be a good rabbit) on his fun and exciting adventures with his best friends Benjamin Bunny and Lily Bobtail. Set in Potter's treasured Lake District in the UK, Peter lives in a world where behind every rock there is a surprise to discover and where dangers, be it a sly fox or bad-tempered badger, lurk around every corner.

The series is a fresh re-imagining of the popular Beatrix Potter children's books based on Peter Rabbit, which have sold over 250 million copies worldwide and been translated into 35 languages. Peter Rabbit features educational goals that encourage preschoolers to learn problem-solving and interpersonal skills, self-efficacy, resilience, positive re-framing and fostering an interest in and respect for nature. Nickelodeon's "Peter Rabbit" is produced in conjunction with Silvergate Media and animated by Brown Bag Films.

The series premiere episode of "Peter Rabbit" will feature the stories "The Tale of the Radish Robber", in which Peter and his friends try to find the perfect place to eat the radishes they took from Mr. McGregor's garden, but little do they know they've got a radish robber on their tails, and "The Tale of Two Enemies", which, when Peter decides to set Mr. Tod and Tommy Brock against each other, he soon finds out that breaking the food chain is harder than it looks:

Adventure Abounds In Peter Rabbit, Nickelodeon's New Animated Preschool Series Premiering Tuesday, Feb. 19, At 12 PM (ET/PT)

NEW YORK, Feb. 7, 2013 /Nick PR via PRNewswire/ -- Nickelodeon brings treasured literary icon Peter Rabbit to life with the debut of the brand-new CG-animated preschool series, Peter Rabbit, on Tuesday, Feb. 19, at 12 p.m. (ET/PT). The series is a fresh re-imagining of the popular Beatrix Potter children's books based on Peter Rabbit, which have sold over 250 million copies worldwide and been translated into 35 languages. Peter Rabbit features educational goals that encourage preschoolers to learn problem-solving and interpersonal skills, self-efficacy, resilience, positive re-framing and fostering an interest in and respect for nature. Peter Rabbit is produced in conjunction with Silvergate Media and animated by Brown Bag Films.

(Download image - Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130207/NY56665 )
"This beloved bunny has touched families for many generations and Nickelodeon continues his legacy with brand-new Peter Rabbit stories for them to enjoy," said Teri Weiss , EVP, Production and Development, Nickelodeon Preschool. "This series captures the spirit of Potter's timeless books, while adding high stakes adventures to illustrate that with determination and friendship, you can overcome even the toughest of obstacles."

The series follows Peter, a mischievous, charming and brave rabbit who overcomes obstacles, outwits predators and avoids danger. Clever, resilient and funny, Peter Rabbit wants to grow up to be just like his late father and carries his journal (a guide to everything you to need to know to be a good rabbit) on his fun and exciting adventures with his best friends Benjamin Bunny and Lily Bobtail. Set in Potter's treasured Lake District, Peter lives in a world where behind every rock there is a surprise to discover and where dangers (be it a sly fox or bad-tempered badger) lurk around every corner.

The series premiere episode will feature the following stories:

"The Tale of the Radish Robber" – Peter and his friends try to find the perfect place to eat the radishes they took from Mr. McGregor's garden, but little do they know they've got a radish robber on their tails!

"The Tale of Two Enemies" – When Peter decides to set Mr. Tod and Tommy Brock against each other, he soon finds out that breaking the food chain is harder than it looks.

At NickJr.com, Nickelodeon's award-winning website, parents and kids can watch sneak-peek Peter Rabbit videos and print out Peter Rabbit games and activities, including a Peter Rabbit coloring pack and Peter Rabbit puppet theater. In March, preschoolers will be able to play the new online game, "Peter Rabbit's Downhill Dash."

In December, Nickelodeon premiered the Peter Rabbit "Peter Rabbit's Christmas Tale" primetime holiday special, which drew three million total viewers and ranked as the number-one program with K2-5 and K2-11 across all TV in its time period.

About Silvergate Media

Silvergate Media is a privately-held creative company, formed in October 2011 through the purchase of the rights to two preschool properties: Peter Rabbit and The Octonauts. Upon formation, Silvergate immediately resumed production of the Peter Rabbit animated series and greenlit Season 2 and Season 3 of The Octonauts. Silvergate Media exploits its properties across a range of formats, from new television productions to toys, apparel and licensed merchandise.

About Brown Bag Films

Brown Bag Films® is an award-winning animation studio, producing high quality animation for the international market. Established in 1994 by Cathal Gaffney and Darragh O'Connell, Brown Bag Films remains a creative-led company. Their numerous awards include Oscar nominations for Give Up Yer Aul Sins (2002) and Granny O'Grimm's Sleeping Beauty (2010), and Bafta and Emmy nominations for The Octonauts (2012). Employing more than 120 full time staff in their Dublin-based headquarters, with a second office in LA, Brown Bag Films are committed to producing the highest-quality, cross-platform animation with strong stories and engaging characters.

Recent productions include Chorion's Olivia for Nickelodeon U.S., Enid Blyton's Noddy in Toyland for Chorion/FIVE UK, The Octonauts for Silvergate Media/BBC and Disney Junior's Doc McStuffins. Current productions include Henry Hugglemonster for Disney Junior, Peter Rabbit for Silvergate Media/Nickelodeon/CBeebies, and second seasons of The Octonauts and Doc McStuffins.

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 more than 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.NickJr.com.

Also, from BSCKids:

Adventure Abounds In Peter Rabbit Premieres Feb 19th

Nickelodeon is preparing for the launch of a new TV series, called Adventure Abounds In Peter Rabbit. The series will be based upon the famous tale written by the late Beatrix Potter, which will also have a fresh CG-animation of the popular characters. The series will revolve around Peter, who is a naughty bunny who wishes to be as a good bunny as his father who kept a journal on how to be so. He carries it around on his adventures with his 2 best friends, Lily Bobtail and Benjamin Bunny. The new series will kick off on Feb 19th, which you can read about the 2 premiering episodes in the press release down below.

I am so happy that they are releasing a series like this. If they did that when I was younger, I would have jumped up and down since I adored the story. It seems like it will be great way to introduce a childhood classic tale to a new set of kids, as well as teach them some real values along the way. Hopefully it will be as good as the books and I am really hoping that the CG-animation will be as amazing as the photo they released of it looks. That was part of the books beauty, so it looks like they will be doing a good job recapturing that beauty in the series.

How do you feel about this reboot of the classic books? I am happy that Nickelodeon got the rights for and not Disney. I have some serious hope that they will keep it as true to the book series as they can, unlike Disney. So I am excited to give this series a whirl, even though I doubt it will blow my socks off with amazement due to it being targeted at pre-schoolers.

Saban Brands Celebrates 20 Years Of Power Rangers At The American International Toy Fair 2013

Saban Brands has announced the Power Rangers News in the following Press Release, from PRNewswire, that, to celebrate 20 years of the mega popular "Power Rangers" franchise, the company and its licensing partners will showcase a playful assortment of "Power Rangers" inspired toys at the upcoming American International Toy Fair, Feb. 10-13 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York, USA! There will be a variety of PR action figures, plush, board games, consumer electronics and more to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the iconic franchise, plus new "Power Rangers Megaforce" products will be on display for the latest brand new series now airing on Nickelodeon USA (Nick), as well as some items inspired by the original "Mighty Morphin Power Rangers" series to commemorate the 20th anniversary year. All products are expected to hit store/shop shelves throughout 2013!:

Saban Brands Celebrates 20 Years of Power Rangers at American International Toy Fair 2013

NEW YORK, Feb. 7, 2013 /Saban Brands News Release PRNewswire/ -- Saban Brands and its licensing partners will showcase a playful assortment of Power Rangers inspired toys next week during the American International Toy Fair, Feb. 10-13 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York. There will be a variety of action figures, plush, board games, consumer electronics and more to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the iconic franchise. New Power Rangers Megaforce products will be on display for the all-new season now airing on Nickelodeon, as well as some items inspired by the original Mighty Morphin Power Rangers series to commemorate the 20th anniversary year. All products are expected to hit shelves throughout the year.

(Download image - Power Rangers - 20th Anniversary Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130207/NY56178LOGO)
"We are thrilled to be showcasing a new array of Power Rangers products from various licensees at Toy Fair," said Elie Dekel , President of Saban Brands . "Power Rangers is the longest running boys action series in television history, so it's clear why we have such a high demand for Power Rangers toys. We currently have over 190 licensee partners worldwide helping to continue making the Power Rangers a MEGA-force in consumer products."

Saban Brands ' licensee partners exhibiting Power Ranger products at the American International Toy Fair include:

Bandai America Incorporated (booth #1919): Bandai will be featuring a variety of Power Rangers Megaforce role play action figures and Zord builder toys including the new Deluxe Gosei Morpher and Deluxe Gosei Great Megazord.

Basic Fun (booth #1751): Basic Fun allows fans to take the Power Rangers with them wherever they go with Power Rangers key chains.

Bluefin Distribution (booth #4833): Bluefin Distribution will be showing its Mighty Morphin Power Rangers 20th Anniversary collectibles, imported from Bandai Japan's premium collectors brand Tamashii Nations.

BrainStorm Products, LLC (booth #5083): Fly high with BrainStorm Products' Power Rangers Megaforce kites on display.

The Bridge Direct (booth #4B2): The Bridge Direct will be showcasing a variety of Power Rangers Megaforce plush items, ranging from 3" Mini Collectibles to the 15" Battle Buddies which include Megaforce phrases and battle sound effects.

Cardinal Industries, Inc. (booth # 2507): Cardinal Industries, Inc. is making the Power Rangers a part of family game night with various Power Rangers puzzles and a Mega version of everyone's favorite card game, Uno.

CDI (JAKKS Pacific) (booth # 1041): CDI will unveil its Giant Size 31" Megaforce Red Power Ranger.

Funko Inc. (booth #4805): Mighty Morphin Power Rangers POP! Vinyl Figures are at the Funko booth, available in Pink, Red and White Rangers.

Jada Toys, Inc. (private meeting room, 2D16, by appointment only): Jada Toys will be unveiling radio control vehicles including the Megaforce Mega Flip R/C and the Megaforce Dragon Zord Cycle R/C.

Jazwares (booth # 4820): Jazwares will be featuring Power Rangers inspired electronics, including Megaforce Walkie Talkies.

MEGA Brands, Inc. (booth #751): MEGA Brands' new items will allow fans to fight evil and build their favorite Megazords and Zords with the new Robo Knight Lion Zord and Gosei Great Megazord.

Pressman Toy Corporation (booth #1703): Pressman will have new games on display, including the Power Rangers Samuraizer Switch Game and Power Rangers Pop N Race.

Tech 4 Kids (booth #3151): Tech 4 Kids has new items for fun in the dark, including the Megaforce Project-A-Lite, Glo-vision glasses and the Grab'N Glow night light/flashlight combo.

Trends International, LLC (booth #2367): Power Rangers Megaforce posters will be on display at the Trends International booth.

USAopoly (booth #457): USAopoly will give you the first look of the upcoming Monopoly and Trivial Pursuit Power Rangers 20th Anniversary Editions.

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 live-action kids 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 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 strategic transmedia 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. For more information, visit www.sabanbrands.com.

SOURCE Saban Brands

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