9 STORY MEDIA GROUP TO PRODUCE "LADYBIRD LU" FOR CARTOON NETWORK AND HBO MAX

9 Story Media Group announces the greenlight of its new animated preschool series "Ladybird Lu" (78 x7’) which will join Cartoonito, the newly announced preschool programming block which is set to launch this fall on Cartoon Network and HBO Max. The series explores everyday dramas in the world of a three-year-old with a brand-new social life.  "Ladybird Lu" will also be available on Cartoon Network and HBO Max services in Latin America and EMEA.9 Story Distribution International will lead global distribution efforts, while 9 Story Brands retains global merchandising rights.

Produced by 9 Story’s award-winning studio Brown Bag Films, the new series was created by Nicky Phelan ("Vampirina", "Bing", "Octonauts"), Oscar®-nominated for his short film Granny O’Grimm’s "Sleeping Beauty.  Phelan is also on board to direct "Ladybird Lu", which is inspired by his mother’s experience running a preschool.

“It always struck me how funny and heart-warming it was to see a bunch of three-year olds learning how to navigate each other,” said series creator and director Nicky Phelan. “This show is about a group of people, who happen to be preschoolers, learning to share space together. My goal was to create a series that parents, and kids can enjoy together – it’s essentially 'The Office' for three-year-olds!”

“The 9 Story Creative Affairs team is thrilled to bring 'Ladybird Lu' to life with Nicky, key creative talent, and research,” said Angela C. Santomero, Chief Creative Officer for 9 Story.“The world needs this show – to give kids a voice and share stories that deal with life’s little lessons, drama, and comedy that come directly from preschoolers themselves!” 

“We are delighted to be partnering with Cartoon Network for the first time on a preschool IP and can’t wait to bring this preschool comedy to families,” said Alix Wiseman, SVP Acquisitions and Distribution for 9 Story. “'Ladybird Lu' is a rare gem which beautifully captures real-life moments and will put a smile on viewer’s faces.”

Executive producers for the series are Vince Commisso, Natalie Osborne, Angela C. Santomero, Cathal Gaffney, Darragh O’Connell, Jennie Stacey and Wendy Harris, with Rachel Kalban in the role of Consulting Producer, Head of Research and Curriculum.