WildBrain Ltd. has partnered with NBCUniversal’s streaming platform, Peacock, to produce 52 new 11-minute episodes of the popular animated series, "Caillou." In addition, Peacock will become the home for five previously announced 44-minute Caillou family specials, currently in production. “We’re delighted to join with Peacock to expand the Caillou universe,” said Josh Scherba, President of WildBrain.
Targeted at preschool kids aged 2-5, "Caillou" is viewed in over 140 countries worldwide. Originally created in Canada in 1997 and based on a series of bestselling children’s books inspired by the work of French child psychiatrist Dr. Françoise Dolto, the title promotes healthy childhood development, imagination, curiosity and emotional growth. “This is yet another example of how we’re reinvigorating treasured brands from our evergreen library," Scherba said. "For over 25 years, preschoolers have connected with Caillou because they can see themselves in these highly relatable stories. Caillou is a kid just like them, facing everyday problems and learning about the world around him. With a new look and stories where Caillou explores the world through wonderful flights of imagination, Caillou is better than ever. We’re confident that today’s kids—and their families—are going to love it.”
The existing Caillou content library of 234 classic 2D episodes and five digital-first seasons will continue streaming and broadcasting on platforms worldwide. On WildBrain’s own premium AVOD network on YouTube, WildBrain Spark, "Caillou" is the number-one property, having garnered more than 73 billion minutes of watch time in 21 languages. WildBrain manages global distribution rights for all Caillou content. "We are overjoyed to work with the team at WildBrain for a new CG-animated version of the beloved Caillou series that won over the hearts of young audiences from around the world,” said Kristofer Updike, Vice President, Kids Content, NBCUniversal Television and Streaming. “Peacock is committed to enriching the minds of a new generation to promote emotional expression, creative thinking and dreaming big. We can't wait for parents and their kids to see these pivotal themes come to life in Caillou and in all of Peacock’s kids’ offerings.”
The new Caillou series continues to explore the daily life of an imaginative and curious four-year-old boy, who—like most preschoolers—is learning and growing a little more each day and doesn’t usually get things right on the first try, despite his best efforts. Through the support and encouragement of his parents, friends and neighbours—as well as through marvelous adventures in his very active imagination—Caillou reaches new understandings and discoveries as he learns to never give up and keep pursuing his goals until he succeeds.
This is yet another example of how we’re reinvigorating treasured brands from our evergreen library. For over 25 years, preschoolers have connected with Caillou because they can see themselves in these highly relatable stories. Caillou is a kid just like them, facing everyday problems and learning about the world around him. With a new look and stories where Caillou explores the world through wonderful flights of imagination, Caillou is better than ever. We’re confident that today’s kids—and their families—are going to love it.” Josh Scherba President, WildBrain