KidsCo to Launch New Look and Content in Q1 2013

KidsCo, an international children’s television channel that reaches 15 million subscribers worldwide, today announced plans for a new look and new content that will roll out globally in Q1 2013. The refreshed KidsCo will feature a redesigned on-air look and graphics and be complemented by original, new content and a new website. In 2013, KidsCo playout will also transition to Corus Entertainment’s state-of-the-art facilities at their Toronto-based headquarters, Corus Quay.

KidsCo will also be introducing a raft of new titles into its schedule including a new original production: Zuzu and the Supernuffs. Currently being produced by award-winning production company Matchbox Pictures (NBCUniversal) – with whom KidsCo announced a content deal earlier this year – the series will air in Q2 2013. Additional content from Nelvana, which is owned by KidsCo shareholder and key strategic partner Corus Entertainment, is currently being finalised for KidsCo’s programming pipeline and titles will be announced later this year.

Zuzu and the Supernuffs follows five furry intergalactic Nuffs who crash land on earth in a rusty old bathtub, where they meet a new friend Zuzu. Together Zuzu and her furry friends venture through the galaxy harnessing their unique superpowers to free the planet of negative thoughts. The announcement of this commission comes shortly after KidsCo securing global rights toShelldon from Shellhut Entertainment and My Place from the Australian Children’s Television Foundation (ACTF).

Hendrik McDermott, Managing Director of KidsCo, comments: “2013 is set to be an exciting year for KidsCo. We will leverage the global capability and expertise of both our shareholders, NBCUniversal and Corus Entertainment, to deliver a refreshed and much stronger channel, which will allow us to compete on the global stage. We will continue to drive our international growth plans through investment in safe, responsible and localised content and provide excellent value for our affiliates.”

Doug Murphy, President, Television, Corus Entertainment, adds: “Corus Entertainment has a wealth of experience in the kids TV space and we look forward to continuing to add more high-quality Corus content from our Nelvana Studio to KidsCo’s pipeline. We are also excited to welcome KidsCo to our world-class technical facility based in Toronto.”