Cartoonito to broadcast in Africa

Cartoonito is set to become an entertainment destination for preschoolers aged three to six and their parents. The Cartoonito block will be a clearly signposted place where preschoolers and their parents can watch preschool content currently available from around the world.

Turner Broadcasting has picked up the new series of Bananas in Pyjamas as one of its flagship debut shows. Produced by Southern Star Entertainment/Southern Star Singapore (a division of Endemol Group) in association with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, the series will fit aptly with the channel's vibrant and imaginative brand attributes. Bananas in Pyjamas is one of a number of deal signings by the broadcaster.

Also forming part of the lineup will be Jelly Jamm, a 3D animated series co-produced by Spanish indies Vodka Capital, 737 Shaker and RTVE (Radio Television Española). LazyTown, a preschool series which helps young children understand how to lead a healthy, active lifestyle set to go into production early next year is also planned.

Michael Carrington, chief content officer at Turner Broadcasting said, "We're incredibly excited to be making such a big splash in the preschool market, with the launch of Cartoonito in Africa. Whilst Controller of CBeebies, I'd always admired Cartoonito from afar, and having the opportunity to extend this wonderful preschool brand was one I couldn't resist. Building on the success of the UK channel, and with two fantastic launch shows at the helm - Bananas in Pyjamas and Jelly Jamm - Cartoonito is set to delight audiences in Africa as a hub of fun with funny and imaginative entertainment for preschoolers and their parents."

Also making the leap to Cartoonito across Africa will be the actual Cartoonitos, six animated character shapes that introduce shows in the continuity breaks, called Lolly, Bubble, Cuba, Spike, Ting and Ringo.