"Bert"
From teen angst to small-town sleuthing, Viaplay Content Distribution is building momentum in the Kids space with two notable Swedish series: "Bert" and "LasseMaja’s Detective Agency." Produced for SVT and TV4, both titles blend humor, heart, and high production values, highlighting the continued appeal of Nordic Kids content across our diverse international slate. Next, let´s review the titles in detail.
"Bert" (10x22’, SVT) – is Middle School drama. Navigating heartbreak, bullies and embarrassing parents, Bert Ljung is a lovable underdog with a journal full of hopes and hormones. Freshly dumped and newly fourteen, Bert is on a chaotic quest to find love again – facing rival guitar guys, sudden acne, and the small problem of falling for the sister of the school’s biggest bully. A reboot of the beloved Swedish character, "Bert" combines laugh-out-loud moments with real emotional stakes. Starring Adrian Macéus ("Little Did I Know"), Lily Wahlsteen ("Otajmat"), Samy Karlsson Fariat ("Dough") and Arvid Bergelv, "Bert" is directed by Bill Schumacher ("The Ambassador") and written by Head writer Adrian Boberg ("Sunny Side") and writer Tapio Leopold ("Trouble"), with Sussan Treschow ("Jana – Marked for Life") producing for FLX.
"LasseMaja’s Detective Agency" (2 seasons, 12x45’, TV4/C More) – is Smart, funny and full of twists, this hit adaptation of the bestselling book series follows two best friends as they solve quirky crimes in the colorful town of Valleby. From jewel thefts to ghostly goings-on, Lasse and Maja’s detective agency is always one step ahead – and their friendship is the real secret weapon. Each season brings a fresh set of mysteries and a cast of lovable townsfolk, including a daydreaming Chief of Police, a romantic barista duo, and a priest in direct contact with heaven. Whether it’s a prison-set New Year’s show or a suspicious swimming badge, nothing in Valleby is ever quite what it seems.
Starring Elis Nyström ("Panik i tomteverkstan"), Ellen Sarri Littorin ("The Inner Circle") and Anders Jansson ("Suedi"), "LasseMaja’s Detective Agency" is directed by Ted Kjellsson ("Håkan Bråkan"), Gustav Åkerblom ("Ture Sventon") and Johan Lundin ("Blinded"). An FLX Production, the series is from Head writers Jessica Ericstam ("The Second Run") and Josefin Johansson ("Love & Anarchy") and produced by Andreas Emanuelsson ("Fejkpatient") and Tony Österholm ("Raptures").
Commenting on the international success of these titles, Vanda Rapti, EVP Viaplay Select & Content Distribution, said: “‘LasseMaja’s Detective Series’ – translated into 34 languages – stands as one of Sweden’s most internationally successful children’s book series. The award-winning adaptation is a perfect fit for family and children’s channels seeking a proven, high-performing kids’ action series that promotes curiosity, logic and teamwork – hallmarks of the trusted Swedish tradition in children's storytelling. We’re also thrilled to present ‘Bert’, based on the beloved Swedish book series, which brings nostalgic charm and universal coming-of-age appeal. These acquisitions complement our standout fantasy family action series ‘Ronja, The Robber’s Daughter’ and the beautifully crafted animated series ‘Karma & Jonar’ – together offering a unique and diverse slate of the best of Nordic premium family and children’s entertainment to our clients globally," stated.