Recap To Last Year: How The Possible Merger Of Paramount Global And Warner Bros. Discovery Merge Nicktoons With Boing And Boomerang?

Boomerang was international children's channel operated by Warner Bros. Discovery that featured past content from Warner Bros. Animation and Cartoon Network. Internationally, it served as a complimentary brand to Cartoon Network with a family based offering.

Some content to have been viewed on Boomerang before it's rebrand to Cartoonito included Grizzy And The Lemmings, Mr. Magoo, New Looney Tunes and Be Cool, Scooby-Doo. It's predecessor Cartoonito serves as a fresh outtake to the nostalgic brand.

Cartoonito seeks to maintain the Boomerang DNA with the latter but in retrospect. It's more like sister channel Cartoon Network which had grown distance from its older programming.

Last year, Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount Global were said to be in early talks of a potential merger. This could see brands like Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network operate under the same umbrella but questions amounted to the future of their other kids brands.

Warner Bros. Discovery had been slowly scrapping Cartoon Network Studios and folding it under Warner Bros. Animation so it's less likely that Nickelodeon Animation Studios will be treated any different. Ideally, Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network's linear counterpart could remain intact.

If anything, a restructuring could be underway for this offering if the merger moves forward. Nickelodeon could revert into the TeenNick of children's TV as they've built stable hits like Drake And Josh, iCarly and Henry Danger with further animation under Cartoon Network.

With animation moving away from Nickelodeon, this would bring about the end of the Nicktoons trademark. Warner Bros. Discovery offering Boomerang and Boing could use these brands to supplement Nicktoons in other countries.

In parts of Europe and Africa, Boing is likely to lead the way as it served as a more modern outtake to Boomerang. It wasn't centred solely on past programming and Warner had often licenced content that wasn't viewed on either Cartoon Network and Cartoonito.

News Shorts: The Final Season Of Chrysalis Is Currently Streaming On eVOD, Boing To Be Added On StarSat Platforms Across South Africa Soon, Queen Of The South Rumoured To Return With A Third Season On Telemundo Across Africa By 2024

Chrysalis S3 is on eVOD

Learning that Cana is pregnant, Nalan brought her to the mansion to confront Sedat, but she still could not learn the truth. Determined to take her revenge on Rafet, Pervin told Rafet about Gülcihan and Cavit's past. Pera, on the other hand, left Muzo on the wedding day with a note she left.

It starred Burcu Biricik as Nalan, Selma Ergeç as Selen, Enis Arıkan as Muzo, Feyyaz Şerifoğlu as Sedat, Nur Sürer as Feride, Şerif Erol as Adil, Hande Ataizi as Cana and Tuğrul Tülek as Levent.

The first 7 episodes are currently streaming on eVOD with more episodes to rollout weekly. Season 2 is set to debut sometime in 2024 on eExtra likely after Roekeloos Dade.

Boing is coming to South Africa

During the week, Warner Bros. Discovery and StarTimes unveiled 4 new channels for consumers, Investigation Discovery, TLC and Discovery Channel, with Boing missing from the pay-tv company's line-up for consumers in Southern Africa.

In a response from PR, it was revealed that they are currently in the process of seeking approval from ICASA for the acquisition of broadcasting rights for Boing. Only then we'll they issue a formal announcement until the channel the channel will rollout in the rest of Africa.

Boing is a children's channel which takes up the DNA of Nicktoons by featuring various archived material and content viewed on Cartoon Network and Cartoonito. Some shows to have been seen on the channel include Ben 10 (2005), Dexter's Laboratory and Adventure Time.

Kate Del Castillo is back on Telemundo

After four years in prison in the United States for the deaths of three DEA agents, Teresa Mendoza escapes but will have to face a world full of conspiracy, risking her life in order to clear her name and reunite with her daughter Sofía.

It starred Kate del Castillo as Teresa Mendoza, Pêpê Rapazote as Pablo Landero, Antonio Gil as Oleg Yosikov, Isabella Sierra as Sofía Dantes and Alejandro Calva as César Güemes "Batman".

Queen Of The South S3 is rumoured to replace Lord Of The Skies daily at 22:00 from Monday 1st January.

New Channel Alert: BOING Extends Its Reach To StarTimes And Possible StarSat Platforms Across Africa

Yesterday, it was reported that Warner Bros. Discovery and StarTimes had reached a new agreement which would see Investigation Discovery and TLC relaunch on the platform with Discovery Channel set to rollout as a new addition to the platform.

Now it has been revealed by sources that StarTimes will be rolling out their 6th TV channel from the brand, Boing.

Boing is a children's channel which takes up the DNA of Nicktoons by featuring various archived material and content viewed on Cartoon Network and Cartoonito. Some shows to have been seen on the channel include Ben 10 (2005), Dexter's Laboratory and Adventure Time.

The channel formed part of a showcase which saw one of Warner's classic brands Boomerang get reimagined as Cartoonito. It was also outlined at the time that Boing had seen a rise in popularity despite not being added to DStv had fan favorites like Clarence and Uncle Grandpa.

It is set to go live alongside the other Warner channels later today on channels 301/354 and it's currently unknown if the channel would be added in South Africa as StarSat hadn't mentioned anything. But as seen in ROA, Boing might be replacing Nickelodeon in the regions.

Could Boing Be Added To StarTimes Perhaps As A Replacement To Toonami?

Boing, a children's channel owned by Warner Bros. Discovery which is home to Clarence, Adventure Time and Dexter's Laboratory basically older shows from Cartoon Network and Cartoonito. It has a boost in popularity despite not residing on MultiChoice's DStv.

Last month, it was confirmed by Warner Bros. Discovery that youth centred action skewed channel Toonami will fold under Warner TV which brought questions to the channel's potential future in the African market.

Toonami was added on Econets defunct Kwése TV alongside Cell C's defunct Black streaming service in 2017. In 2020, it was shortly revived as a pop-up channel on MultiChoice's DStv and was later picked up by StarSat in South Africa alongside StarTimes in the rest of Africa.

During that time, Toonami was one of the leading kids brands at the time for anime like Beyblade, DC heroes like Batman or and Cartoon Network IPs like Ben 10. Over the years, the quality had further diminished with DC building up most of their lineup and anime on limbo.

Despite transitioning to a much wider spectrum in 2021, not much content was added to the channel except for Firestarter and Dragonball Super. The reason I believe this channel could be on the chopping block for consumers in Africa is simple.

Firstly, Warner Bros. Discovery had been eliminating redundancy across their platforms. Before Toonami, there was TCM and the ever successful Boomerang who similar to the channel went through a dry spell with TCM not getting much hype on its performance as seen with Boomerang.

Unlike the latter, it wouldn't seem far fetched if Warner Bros. Discovery opted for existing brand e.g. Boing as opposed to a complete restructure of the channel.

Toonami is regarded as an adult channel but most of the content fit the demographic of Cartoon Network being 7-12 years and also StarTimes still regards Toonami as a kids brand despite the rebrand in 2021 and the only new offering on the channel at the time, Firestarter.

Boing would make a suitable replacement as both leverage on archived material and also Cartoon Network and Cartoonito aren't even seen on the platform. This would be one way to get the content to newer audiences and familiarise them with both brands.

Drafted Version: What To Expect On Warner Bros. Discovery Africa In July 2023?

Discovery Channel:

Expedition Unknown: An archaeologist travels across the world in search of lost artefacts and investigates unsolved mysteries like the creation of the Nazca lines.
Outback Opal Hunters: Six teams of opal miners from Australia embark on a risky mission to hunt for the most fascinating gemstone in harsh and remote landscapes.

TLC:

Me Or The Menu: Four couples put their relationship to the test as they try to overcome the difficulties of opening their first restaurant together.
Outdaughtered: American married couple Adam and Danielle, parents to a set of all-female quintuplets, share details about the joys and struggles of taking care of multiple children.
90 Day Fiance: Before The 90 Days: The series about couples who unite in America under a special U.S. visa -- tells of how the couples first became acquainted.

Discovery Family:

Street Outlaws Fastest In America: Eight of the fastest teams in the U.S. descend on Memphis to compete for the biggest street race yet, for a prize of $100,000. Handpicked by JJ Da Boss, street racing bosses from South Carolina, St. Louis, Kentucky, Mississippi, Detroit, NOLA, Texas and the Northeast, each claiming to be king of the streets, have assembled their teams in Memphis for the chance to prove their racing chops.

Real Time:

Spring Baking Championship: America's finest pastry chefs and professional bakers battle it out in a series of challenges based on springtime treats that test their culinary skills.
Still A Mystery: Reexaminations of cases in which unanswered questions still remain; includes interviews with law enforcement personnel, family members and private investigators as well as news footage and social media posts.
NASA's Unexplained Files: Various theories offer insight into the work NASA does and has been doing.
Buddy's Big Bakedown: Amateur and professional bakers from the USA create and bake different cakes and compete against each other to emerge victorious.
The Demon Files: Ralph Sarchie and his team help people under attack from demons and Satan.
Secret Space Escapes: Astronauts and scientists recall their terrifying and near-death experiences during space missions.
Lakefront Bargain Hunt: The spotlight is on water lovers who dream of weekends or summers living by the dock of the bay.

Investigation Discovery:

Homicide Hunter: The Man With No Face: 1988: In Colorado Springs, Mary Lynn Vialpando, age 24, was raped and murdered. 30 years later, detectives link the crime scene DNA to James Papol. In May 2021, now age 48, Papol pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 60 years in prison.
Aaron Hernandez: An ID Murder Mystery: Football, fame and murder. In this special, we examine the rise and fall of football star, Aaron Hernandez.
Susan Powell: An ID Murder Mystery: After 28-year-old Susan Powell disappears from her home in West Valley City, Utah, her husband, Josh, unsettles police with his odd behavior, leading them to suspect he knows what really happened to his wife and the mother of his two young sons.
Pamela Smart: An American Mystery: This three part special explores the story of Gregg Smart, whose wife Pamela Smart plotted his murder at the hands of four teenage boys in 1990.

Food Network:

Guy's Ranch Kitchen: Guy Fieri challenges his friends in a cooking showdown to prepare some of the most healthy dishes that are packed with flavour.
Supermarket Stakeout: The host invites aspiring chefs from different parts of the country to purchase ingredients from grocery shoppers and compete in a series of culinary rounds to win.

HGTV:

100 Day Dream Home: A custom home designer couple takes up assignments wherein they build a perfect house from scratch in less than 100 days.
Holmes Family Rescue: Contractor Mike Holmes teams up with his kids, Michael Holmes Jr. and Sherry Holmes, to rescue clients who have nowhere else to turn after living through botched construction jobs.
Holmes Of

Travel Channel:

The Haunted Museum: Paranormal investigator and host of Ghost Adventures Zak Bagans joins forces with filmmaker Eli Roth, the modern master of horror, to present a terrifying film anthology inspired by pieces found in Zak’s personal collection of haunted artifacts.
Kindred Spirits: Paranormal investigators, Amy Bruni and Adam Berry, help families troubled by supernatural activities in their homes and help them find peace.

Cartoon Network:

Craig Of The Creek: Following the adventures of Craig Williams and his two friends, Kelsey Pokoly and John Paul `JP' Mercer, as they explore the untamed wilderness of the Creek, which is dominated by tribes of children.
Jellystone: Yogi Bear, Cindy Bear, Huckleberry Hound, and other residents of Jellystone cross paths in fun and ridiculous ways, turning everyday activities into hilarious pandemonium.
Justice League Vs. Buzzard League: It's up to the Justice League to team up with their bizarre counterparts to stop Darkseid and save the galaxy!
Garbage Boy And Trash Can (New Show): About a boy who believes he has superpowers and fights for justice with his sidekick, Trash Can.
Justice League Gotham City Breakout: about a boy who believes he has superpowers and fights for justice with his sidekick, Trash Can.

Cartoonito:

The Adventures Of Bernie (New Show): After failing to help Zig, Bernie is lost at the bottom of the ocean. In this hostile environment, this handyman will do everything he can to get back to his island and find Zig, but his clumsy new neighbours won't make his task any easier.
Bugs Bunny Builders: Bugs Bunny and Lola Bunny manage an inept crew of builders at ACME Construction Company. Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Tweety, and others use their tools and wild vehicles to pull off some loony construction jobs.
Toads And Friends: The series celebrates the countryside and children’s simple joy of being outdoors as they follow their favorite characters on brand new humorous adventures in which they discover moral courage, respect and the value of friendship.
Silly Sundays (New Show): Everything centers around Sonia, Hugo, Mel, Mom, Dad and Granny as they create unforgettable memories together during their weekend gatherings.

Boing:

My Little Pony: Pony Life (New Show): The series explores comedic, slice of life stories that Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Rarity and Fluttershy experience, primarily while hanging out at Sugarcube Corner.

Development Alert: The Fairly OddParents And My Little Pony: Pony Life Coming Respectively To eToonz And Possible New Channel On DStv Boing Africa

During the year, eMedia Investments had (re)acquired various content from Nickelodeon including Kung Fu Panda: Legends Of Awesomeness, Dora The Explorer and The Loud House. Now the brand is set to rollout their fourth series from the brand, The Fairly OddParents.

Synopsis for the show:

The Fairly OddParents follows Timmy Turner, a 10 year old kid who was given his own fairy godparents Cosmo and Wanda who grant his every wish which at times comes with disastrous consequences. Butch Hartman known for Danny Phantom serves as content creator.

Since the series inception, The Fairly OddParents serves as Nickelodeon's second longest running series behind SpongeBob SquarePants. It has also spawned several live-action films and one series alongside various video games, theme park attractions, figurines and toys.

Recently, Nickelodeon had filed a trademark for The Fairly OddParents: A New Wish for entertainment, sporting and cultural services. Not much info is available about it on whether it will be a TV series or film for the brand or through Paramount+.

This comes after the removal of The Fairly OddParents: Fairly Odder on Paramount+.

Boing, a children's channel operated by Warner Bros. Discovery funneling shows from Cartoon Network and Cartoonito (formerly Boomerang) is set to broadcast the first season to one of the brand's forgotten shows, My Little Pony: Pony's Life.

Synopsis for the show:

Based on My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic, the series explores comedic, slice of life stories that Twilight Sparkle, Pinkie Pie, Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Rarity and Fluttershy experience, primarily while hanging out at Sugarcube Corner.

The series was picked by Cartoonito (formerly as Boomerang) in 2021 and ran for two seasons. Unlike Friendship Is Magic, the series uses a different art style and each episode is 11 minutes long, consisting of two five-minute segments.

During the year, various content from Boing had been registered under DStv Catch-Up (including My Little Pony: Pony Life). According to reps, there are no plans to add Boing to DStv but that doesn't explain its appearance on Catch-Up maybe it will be added later on.

My guess a replacement for Disney Channel or Nicktoons if not a new channel on the platform.

The Fairly OddParents airs Fridays at 16:30 from 30 June on eToonz while My Little Pony: Pony Life is slated to launch later in July on Boing.

New Channel Alert (Rumour): Could MultiChoice Be Adding Boing As A New Channel To The DStv Platform?

Boing is a children's channel owned by Warner Bros. Discovery that is home to various shows formerly seen on Cartoon Network and Boomerang (now Cartoonito). Some of the shows include Total Drama Island, Adventure Time, Wacky Races and The Jungle Bunch.

During the year, Warner Bros. Discovery held a virtual conference for Cartoonito where it was mentioned that the channel had been garnering popularity within the market particularly for shows such as Dexter's Laboratory, Uncle Grandpa and Clarence.

It's kind of clear that the channel is in high demand particularly for consumers who grew up viewing these shows on Cartoon Network and at the time Boomerang. Another being the crowded lineup of preschool channels onboard the platform.

Over the years, MultiChoice has been restructuring repeats seen across the platforms and Boing does come off as a channel that would likely join existing brands such as kykNET Lekker and BBC UKTV.

Similar to Nicktoons and in some capacity Discovery Family, Warner Bros. Discovery has been licencing content that you wouldn't come across on Cartoon Network much less Cartoonito. On top of that, Boing has often been used to continue shows these brands axe.

Over to DStv, rumours of the brand's possible entry to the platform first started when Warner Bros. Discovery supposedly promoted Puffy AmiYumi as Cartoonito and now The Grim Adventures Of Billy And Mandy joins the list now with including Cartoon Network.

Next month, schools will be closing so maybe Boing will be announced by then as The Grim Adventures Of Billy And Mandy is listed under Warner Bros. Discovery's upcoming attractions for June 2023.

Again nothing is official considering MultiChoice already supply a large selection of channels from Warner Bros. Discovery the idea of Boing joining that list doesn't seem far fetched. As the brand in some form or manner can fill the void left by Boomerang.

Recap To The Past Month: Boing Remains As A Essential Member Of Warner Bros. Discovery

Boing is a children's channel owned by Warner Bros. Discovery that is being used to leverage content from Cartoon Network or Cartoonito with shows like Dexter's Laboratory, Ben 10, The Jungle Bunch, Johnny Bravo, Adventure Time and Wacky Races.

Last month, Warner Bros. Discovery held a briefing for Cartoonito where they took the time to address the future of Boomerang and also their other children's brands. Cartoon Network is the most popular offering amongst the trio particularly with boys aged 7-12 years.

Boing which serves as a third wheel or side kick to Cartoon Network and Cartoonito has garnered a lot of popularity for children aged 4-14 years since it's rollout in 2015 particularly for Cartoon Network originals such as Dexter's Laboratory, Uncle Grandpa and Clarence.

In France, the channel is expected to exit the market after 13 years for Cartoonito which is slated to rollout in the African market by the end of March. Boing will remain available in Italy, Spain and Africa.

Boomerang will be repositioned as the new Boing within France while in Africa it will rebrand to Cartoonito featuring various shows from the mentioned channel and join other existing animation brands including Cartoon Network, Boing and as forgotten Toonami.

Warner Bros. Discovery Remains With The Most Popular Kids Channels In The African Market Including Boing, But Where Does That Leave Toonami Exactly?

During the week, Warner Bros. Discovery held a showcase where they were able to clear up some fears consumers had of Cartoon Network shutting down as seen with the Disney Channels and the current offering of Boomerang once it becomes Cartoonito in March.

Cartoon Network ranks as the most popular kids destination in South Africa for a 7th year in a row pulling at least 15 million households which is ginormous for any channel in general with Boomerang (soon to be Cartoonito) coming in second place with 10 million.

Some of these popular shows include Regular Show, We Baby Bears, Craig Of The Creek, Teen Titans GO!, Grizzy And The Lemmings, Masha And The Bear, Scooby-Doo and Looney Tunes.

Insidus Games:
- Transformers
- Pink Panther: Pinkadelic Pursuit
- Looney Tunes
- The Powerpuff Girls: Mojo Jojo A-Go-Go!

Currently available in selected parts of Africa, Boing was apparently part of this event and to my surprise it's actually managing to get some attention. Not much had been shared in terms of performance but viewers are digging classics like Johnny Bravo and Clarence.

Of course, one brand that Warner Bros. Discovery failed to mention amidst all of this is Toonami.

Since 2021, Toonami is no longer regarded as kids entertainment which was the whole point of this virtual event. But the brand features a ton of kid centric programming and films from the likes of Batman, Superman, Justice League and Teen Titans.

It still repetitive compared to most channels seen under Warner Bros. Discovery that it wouldn't be shocking if they scrapped the channel. Cartoon Network has been airing a variety of content from the DC Universe and Toonami's offering would help compliment that section.

Regular Nick:
- Wonder Pets revival might be in the works for Nickelodeon
- Peacock greenlights two new animated series
- Boomerang to go dark on the DStv platform next month
- Disney Junior and Disney+ to debut new Star Wars series in May

As opposed to the future of Toonami, it might as well be Boing which incorporates all aspects of kids and family in terms of animation including the DC Universe. Besides, both are very much underrated and the one Boing gained popularity after nearly a decade.

Cartoon Network Or Boing??? Puffy Amiyumi Might Be Making A Comeback Thanks To Cartoonito Africa And DStv

During the week, it was reported Boomerang would go dark by end of March for Cartoonito. A fully fledged preschool destination offering fun, creative and engaging content for viewers and their families while as incorporating the Boomerang DNA.

Bringing the end to what was once known as the TCM of children's entertainment offering older programming formerly seen on Cartoon Network such as Time Squad, Looney Tunes, Wacky Races, Tiny Toons Adventures, The Jetsons, Yogi Bear and Scooby-Doo!, Where Are You?.

This format happens to be seen in some parts of Africa and the world through Boing. A channel also owned by Warner Bros. Discovery and has been branded as another Nicktoons for its existing or former Cartoon Network and Boomerang programming.

Insidus Games:
- Transformers
- Pink Panther: Pinkadelic Pursuit
- Looney Tunes
- The Powerpuff Girls: Mojo Jojo A-Go-Go!

To be frank, it's more productive than the actual Nicktoons by Paramount Global. I know most of them it's rebroadcasts but this is the best place to continue watching shows the two brands ditch over the years including The Jungle Bunch, Oswaldo and Angelo Rules.

In a recent development, sources close to Warner Bros. Discovery has been unveiling several attractions for their brands particularly those residing with MultiChoice and one thing that caught my eye was Hi Hi Puffy Amiyumi.

Hi Hi Puffy AmiYumi follows the adventures of two pop stars and best friends: Yumi Yoshimura, a cynical, sarcastic, and grumpy tomboy and Ami Onuki, a peppy, optimistic, and cheerful girly girl. Both are based on the real Japanese pop duo Puffy AmiYumi, but with different appearances and exaggerated personalities.

They travel around the world on their customized tour bus along with their well-intentioned yet greedy manager Kaz Harada. From rocking out at a concert to hanging out in their hometown of Tokyo, the duo take the world by storm with their musical talent, trend-setting style, and humor, dishing out lessons in J-pop justice and establishing the international language of "cool" along the way.

Regular Nick:
- Boomerang to go dark on the DStv platform next month
- March on Cartoonito
- Lego Monkie Kid returns this April on Cartoon Network
- Cartoonito to get a dedicated channel in France
- Da Vinci Kids plans co-viewing future

This show was seen last on Cartoon Network in the early 2000s and since then no reruns have been available. From what I last saw, Boing was airing that show and again the channel is not accessible on any of MultiChoice's platforms which brings the question.

What is Puffy AmiYumi doing with Cartoonito?
Sources that unveiled several attractions for the preschool brand opted to place this series under Cartoonito but what caught my eye was that every other show like Batwheels and Bugs Bunny Builders all had Cartoonito's logos imprinted but not Puffy.

At first, I thought maybe Cartoon Network is planning to rebroadcast the show as they plan to add variety to their lineup with Totally Spies! and Tiny Toons Looniversity but the file other than tags had a nsme NL Boing which brings yet another question.

Could Boing be making way to the DStv platform soon?

MultiChoice already provides their most popular brands TNT, Cartoon Network and Boomerang (soon to be Cartoonito). The idea of them expanding the lineup of channels doesn't seem like a far fetched idea at this point.

Boomerang will be going dark soon and Cartoonito has a lot of Boomerang in its lineup but no one can be certain at this point in future if that's what we'll be seeing from the brand overtime henceforth it's replacement, Boing.

On top of that, aren't consumers on the Easyview package scheduled to lose eToonz in the coming months. Boing would make a fine replacement not sure if MultiChoice would want other customers to view it on the platform after seeing BBC UKTV and Moja 9.9.

But there's always chances this could be a program intended to rebroadcast on Cartoon Network I mean wasn't WBD at some point about togetherness and girl power. At the same, there's chances this could have been just an error on their side.

Boomerang To Remain In France For The Time Being As Boing Exits The Market, Could More Regions Follow?

During the week, Warner Bros. Discovery in France announced the launch of a new preschool brand, Cartoonito. A brand which operates as a linear channel and a programming block on various Cartoon Network and Boomerang channels.

Some of the shows expected for the preschool counterpart come from supposed brands above including Lucas The Spider, Thomas And Friends, Mush Mush And The Mushables, Interstellar Ella, Batwheels and Bugs Bunny Builders.

Cartoonito will be standing beside Boomerang as seen in the UK and Italy as opposed to a replacement as seen in Latin America and soon parts of Europe. In a recent, development it was confirmed the channel would replace Boing instead.

Insidus Games:
- Buzz Lightyear Star Command
- Pink Panther: Pinkadelic Pursuit
- Spider-Man Toxic City
- Baby Felix Halloween

Take to account, several Boomerang feeds are already being phased out for Cartoonito. Is it possible that Boing too is being phased out completely or is it possible for Boomerang to take it's place?

Boing served as a mashup of Cartoon Network and Boomerang offering shows currently and formerly viewed on the channels including Adventure Time, Teen Titans GO!, Secret Saturday, Angelo Rules, The Jungle Bunch and Total Drama.

Its success had led to a number of regions such as France, Italy, Spain and Africa to sought out the modern/retro infused channel for their own means.

Regular Nick:
- Cartoonito to get a dedicated channel in France
- Da Vinci Kids plans co-viewing future
- PBS Kids has yet to rollout the new logo in other countries
- Disney renews 3 adult animated series through 2025

Boing to sum it up was what Boomerang in these regions used to be and had since then abandoned - TCM. Over the years, that format despite being met with praise by audiences was eventually phased out for the Comedy Central inspired brand we came to love.

I mean the reasons it had to be altered seemed very much logical. Firstly, repeat channels don't get that much attention one of the reasons TCM, AMC and even Sundance TV were phased out in a lot of regions and Boomerang fitting in the trio was the most successful.

Boing in general isn't that knowledgeable by a lot of people as seen with Boomerang. The main feed is kind of like what Boing is today with a lot of history involved so phasing out European based channel wouldn't be a bad idea as it makes business sense.

Boomerang Vs. Toonami Vs. Boing: Most Likely To Get Chopped

Boomerang, Toonami and Boing are animation brands within Warner Bros. Discovery's portfolio that cater to kids and youth adults but to better understand them it's best to explain each of them individually in detail.

Boomerang is a children's brand that caters to viewers aged 4-7 with shows like Masha And The Bear, Grizzy And The Lemmings and The Happos Family while as carrying content for the whole family to enjoy like Looney Tunes Cartoons, Mr. Magoo and Zig & Sharko.

Toonami is an action driven channel for young adults featuring various animation from DC's superheroes like Batman, Superman, Green Lantern, Justice League and Teen Titans. Accompanying the league of DC characters is anime like Hero Academia and Dragonball.

Boing is basically another Nicktoons as it features a classic set of content like Adventure Time, Regular Show, Johnny Bravo and Foster's Home For Imaginary Friends while as being used a brand for CN's forgotten or reject shows like Angelo Rules, Oswaldo and The Jungle Bunch.

In short, Boomerang is the best place for laughter while Toonami caters for comic book fans and people in the mood for some action and Boing travels back in time to the place where it all began with old favorites while blending to the modern society.

Unfortunately with all these traits come some minor flaws of which these 3 all have in common. Although each have a role to play, it's more transparent the more you watch but I feel it's best to bring it up.

On a year to year basis, Warner Bros. Discovery invests a certain amount of airtime on their channels with Boomerang and Cartoon Network getting the most Investment seeing as they're more acknowledged compared to Boing and Toonami.

In terms of content, Boomerang doesn't have a lot of noticable shows just gags which can help pass the time but that's as far as it goes. Just like Toonami, it can be irritating on how these shows rollout and how long it takes before you can get anything worthwhile.

Boing is just another repeats channel if anything it kind of rectifies the errors of Boomerang and Toonami. After all, the lineup adjusts constantly you don't have to wait several months or a year to find something worthwhile but that's just the perks of being a Nicktoons which can be substituted.

If there's any channel that would likely get chopped in this instance, it would have to be these three as it is Warner Bros. Discovery is cost cutting and I'm not saying they won't be much left on these stations or we'll see less content but 2/3 is a Nicktoons with the third being an odd triplet.

Pierre Branco Appointed General Manager, France, Benelux And Africa, Warner Bros. Discovery

Warner Bros. Discovery today announced that Pierre Branco has been appointed General Manager, France, Benelux and Africa, Warner Bros. Discovery. He will continue to report to Priya Dogra, President and Managing Director, EMEA (ex Poland). In this role Pierre Branco will be responsible for Warner Bros. Discovery’s combined businesses working in close coordination with the company’s global functions across Streaming, Sport, US Programming, and the Studio and for each line of business, developing territory-specific strategies to drive growth and efficiencies. These include pay and FTA networks, leading significant efforts in marketing and monetising US content across lines of business including theatrical, licensing, consumer products, games and home entertainment and shared responsibility for the streaming services.

 

Priya Dogra, President and Managing Director, EMEA (ex Poland), said: “Pierre is an accomplished leader with a deep understanding and experience of these markets where he has already played a pivotal role in driving strategic business decisions. I am confident that his strong leadership and strategic acumen will continue to drive our businesses forward and connect our beloved brands and consumers in these important and competitive marketplaces.”

Pierre Branco said: "I am enormously proud to be part of this new chapter of Warner Bros. Discovery. I look forward to building on the legacy and values that have made both companies so successful in these regions, and to contribute to building the world’s most dynamic media company in these important markets. The opportunity to lead these fantastic teams is very exciting and I can’t wait to get started.”

 

Most recently, Branco was Country Manager for France, Benelux, Middle East and Africa and Head of Affiliates and Ad Sales for EMEA at WarnerMedia. During his 15 years at the company, he has held a number of roles across Europe, Middle East and Africa including SVP Northern Europe, MENAT, France & Africa and VP & General Manager France and Africa. In these roles, he significantly grew the company’s business and launched new brands in the region: Boing, Toonami and Warner TV.

BOING Africa Gets A New Bounce In Its Step!

There’s a little more blue in the clouds, a little more ray in the sunshine, and a lot more colour all around! That’s because WarnerMedia’s cartoon-based kids’ entertainment channel, Boing, is gearing up for a fresh look and feel as of the 10th of April.

The channel, which airs across households in 19 African countries for girls and boys aged four to 14 years old, is home to a range of spontaneous and humorous franchises and popular comedy and action shows such as international animated hits like Sonic Boom, Dragons and The Jungle Bunch; 90’s classics including Codename KND, Dexter’s Laboratory and Johnny Bravo; and other channel favourites, for example, Angelo Rules, Uncle Grampa and Oswaldo.

Working closely with children from the core target market,  the channel has redesigned its playfulness, introducing a new chameleon-like logo. A massive icon library that can be changed and adapted according to the brand's modernised visual language has been developed and features over 320 graphical elements, including 150 Boing brand stickers aligning the shows kids love with the channel. With just the right amount of childhood chaos, the new, flexible logo can be updated into many different variants working across all the different platforms on which the channel is featured, giving Boing viewers in Africa something to look forward to every single day.

“The new-look Boing is a fun-filled playground where kids can take ownership of the brand, finding themselves surrounded by a palette of stickers, icons, and other doodles allowing fans to add their own element of chaos to create unique looks that reach a new level of excitement and fun,” says Ariane Suveg, Kids Content Director for France and Africa. “With this new fun-filled identity, Boing is now even more connected and in step with the world of our young viewers: Dynamic, inclusive, and constantly evolving!”

The channel has kept its promise and has managed to match local African kids’ taste by acquiring exclusive programmes. In April, viewers can look forward to Boing Sunday Marathons at 13:30 CAT every week, including the maddening misadventures of Oswaldo, the escapades of a group of ten-year-olds in Codename KND, everyone’s favourite Uncle Grampa, the exciting tale of Maurice the penguin in The Jungle Bunch, and ending the month with the sweet-talking 11-year-old in Angelo Rules.

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- April 2021 on Cartoon Network

- Toonami Africa deserves better

With Less Kids Entertainment On Cable, Here's A List Of Possible Kids Channels That Might Occupy Disney XD Spot On DStv

In less than 21 days, Disney XD will shut down on DStv and since MultiChoice won't be looking at alternatives for 304 yet I complied a list of possible candidates. There's not much kids entertainment left in the world that viewers haven't already seen but these channels are the only ones left that cater to the same audience as XD and I can see part of them die like XD at some point. In the end, MultiChoice managed to package a total of 15 kids channels and not a lot of countries can do that.

NBCUNIVERSAL:
DreamWorks Channel, a kids channel owned by NBCUniversal (since 2016) which is home to archived and current DreamWorks animation including Dawn Of The Croods, All Hail King Julien and DreamWorks Dragons. The channel was available exclusively through Kwesé TV (till it got liquidated) and a year later on StarTimes.

Universal Kids also owned by NBCUniversal targeting a youth audience, including DreamWorks Animation content, unscripted programming (including game shows, and youth spin-offs of reality series from its sister networks, such as American Ninja Warrior and Top Chef), and imported series from other countries.

WARNERMEDIA:
Toonami owned by WarnerMedia is the home of superheroes particularly from DC Comics. Exciting, action-packed comics-based cartoon shows for fanboys-and-girls including Batman, Superman, Green Lantern and Young Justice. The channel was available exclusively through Kwesé TV (liquidated), a few months later on Cell C's Black (defunct) and a year later as a pop-up channel on DStv and became a permanent channel on StarTimes.

Boing also owned by WarnerMedia is a reruns channel for past programming seen on Cartoon Network including Puffy Amiyumi, Ed Edd'n Eddy, Dexter's Laboratory and Courage The Cowardly Dog alongside some acquired programming such as The Garfield Show and Sonic Boom. The channel is available in some parts of Africa.

Genius Brands:
Kartoon Channel (formerly Kid Genius and Baby Genius) is the home of the very best in kids and familiy entertainment across major cable/satellite providers and OTT platforms. Their shows have no violence, no negative stereotypes, and no inappropriate language. The lineup includes Minecraft’s Journey to the End, Angry Birds Toons, Mighty7, Rainbow Rangers and Llama Llama. GNUS described it as Netflix for kids.

Stats:
- DreamWorks content is accessible on many platforms while Universal Kids can supply that content on a limited basis due to the other programming seen on the channel.
- Universal Kids is the least watched channel in the U.S. and the only channel here that's not gaining traction.
- Kartoon Channel is the brand with several platforms to view.
- Toonami and Boing are pure repeats channels meaning if there's a time where streaming dominates the market these channels can be obsolete.
- Most of DreamWorks Animation is coming from Netflix meaning if the platform feels like not investing in the brand then the channel could become obsolete. On the bright side more platforms are working with this brand for more programming guarantee longevity.

Read Also:
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- KIX movie lineup before it's launch on DStv
- Is MultiChoice planning to remove EVA as well

- Discovery EMEA streamlining channels

- Zoomoo kiddies lineup
- Scrapped channels on DStv - their status is still unknown

Turner's Upfront Reveals Brand New Look, Slate And Local Partnerships, More Edge And Excitement On Turner's 2018/19 Entertainment Offering

Turner, the consumer centric global media company has revealed an exciting new line up of programming, content and partnerships for its African markets.

Turner operates six channels across Africa’s 54 English, French and Portuguese speaking countries. These include CNN International, Africa’s favourite kids’ channels, Cartoon Network, Boomerang, Boing and Toonami, as well as recently relaunched blockbusters destination, TNT. Not only has this year seen Turner actively evolve its portfolio, but the broadcast giant is trailblazing with the creation of relevant and authentic local content in Africa to expand its footprint, while resonating even further with its local audience.

With the recent launch of TNT, Boomerang’s channel refresh, greater local initiatives through brand partnerships, local productions, local dubbing of content, the launch of Turner content on Showmax and advertising and sponsorship business growth, exciting times lie ahead.

“As Turner, our audience needs are becoming more pertinent and we’re constantly challenging ourselves to be more innovative and creative in our offering to keep attracting and entertaining our loyal fan base, on-air, on-line and for-real. We remain steadfast in our commitment to providing the best service and high-standard content to our fans,” says Jaime Ondarza, Senior Vice President for Turner Southern Europe & Africa and Chief Executive Officer of Boing SpA.

“We are benefiting from high awareness and a great level of brand recognition with our brands in Africa. CNN International is widely known to be the most trusted source for news and information on the continent while our kids’ channels, Cartoon Network and Boomerang, have been leading and gaining market share within the pay TV kids industry for almost four years in a row,” adds Ondarza.

New General Entertainment Destination: TNT
As part of its ongoing commitment to its fans, Turner Africa launched the modern TNT Africa channel in September with a brand positioning of being the reference for ‘the best American blockbusters’ and in only one month, the channel has seen a 45% boost in ratings*.TNT has an exciting line-up with great blockbusters such as The Illusionist, Crank, Robin Hood, Gladiator, The Island, Jurassic Park and King Kong.

Local Initiatives & Partnerships
Turner has strengthened its footprint in Africa over the past few years, not only with the distribution of global content, but through meaningful and sustainable partnerships with local content creators, talent and distributors as part of its commitment to a localisation strategy based on the cultural differences of the African market.

These initiatives include CN Creative Lab, an African creative competition where the winner and runners up will be given the opportunity to get their project produced as a pilot with Cartoon Network Africa which will premiere in 2019; Pop Up Party season 2, where we see local kids expressing themselves through some incredible dance challenges; the launch of Mike and Rob, a series show-casing two witty microbes making jokes with local reference voiced by local comedian, Trevor Gumbi; and African magic will take center stage in Boomerang’s new exciting local production set to hit screens in 2019.

Local Brand Initiatives
Beyond searching for local talent and producing original African content, Turner has focused on tone of voice, and image, to resonate with its fans, increasing its local collaborations with artists and brand ambassadors such as Toya Delazy, Africa’s very own Powerpuff Girl, and Bafana Bafana’s midfielder, Reneilwe “Yeye” Letsholonyane, connecting Ben 10 fans to the FIFA World Cup. The campaigns engage with the realities of African children, while also contributing to a greater cause. For example, the PPG Awards, launched in August, celebrate and empower young girls in Africa, offering them a platform to showcase their super-powers. These girls are ordinary little girls, with superhero skills, who have great ideas to change their world. The winners in the fields of Technological Innovation, Social Responsibility and Bravery; and Art and Creativity will each receive $1 500 to help bring their award-winning entry to life with the help of a dedicated mentor.

Forging Connections with Our Audiences
Turner has invested heavily in qualitative market surveys and research to better understand its audiences and provide actionable insights to ensure its brands deliver locally relevant content, as well as packaged tailored experiences. “Plans are underway to produce original digital productions to further localise our online platforms and engage with our fan base. We are currently in discussion to produce an exclusive local version of our YouTuber, Toony, for our African digital platforms. We are also increasingly strengthening our presence on the ground. For the upcoming season we will be activating the Johannesburg Zoo on the 8th and 9th of December and will tour the Kwazulu-Natal coast for ten days with Cartoon Network and Boomerang’s Beach Tour,” says Julien Borde, Head of Channels for Africa.

Content Partnerships & Distribution
Turner has distribution agreements with main African TV platforms in all key regions including pan-African players such as MultiChoice, StarTimes, Orange, SFR/Altice and Canal Overseas, as well as region specific distribution players including mobile streaming services such Black-Cell C and Maroc Telecom. With some entertainment and news channels already available on Cell-C’s OTT service Black, and DStv Catch Up/DStv Now services, digital roll out continues to be a major priority for Turner.  Its new distribution deal with African OTT Subscription Video on Demand platform, Showmax, owned by the MultiChoice group, makes Adult Swim accessible to its millennial audience from mid-November.

Rated the #1 cable network in the US for almost a decade, Adult Swim offers an epic mix of animation, stop motion and live action comedy. The service will also have a dedicated kids’ corner with Cartoon Network and Boomerang content.

Furthermore, Turner and the South African Broadcasting  Corporation (SABC) struck a deal to broadcast Ben 10 in South Africa, enabling Turner to bring one of its most beloved series to a wider audience across South Africa by tapping into the extensive reach of the public broadcaster.  Following the first season premiere in July, Turner is excited to engage new fans by re-airing the first season on SABC2 in Afrikaans and SABC 1 in SiSwati later in 2018.

Commenting on this, Guillaume Coffin, VP Head of Commercial and Business Development says, “Partnering with the SABC reflects our strategy to expand our brands’ presence in South Africa. We are thrilled to bring Ben 10 to new fans and audiences across more screens and in new languages. Turner is dedicated to a localisation strategy that adapts to the cultural differences of its African markets. Implemented in recent years, this effort has helped Turner address the gap in locally-relevant content, drive programming that resonates with African audiences, and boost brand value across the continent. This collaboration allows new local audiences to engage in the Cartoon Network brand.”

To further diversify its revenue stream and business offering, Turner has expanded its advertising business in key African markets through the appointment of advertising representatives, Mediamark, in South Africa beginning of 2018, and Greenworld Communications in Nigeria last September.  These two partnerships are a strategic move for Turner which will bring its channels’ value to advertisers in Africa. “Our wide portfolio allows us to target a large array of segments from families, to kids, through to young adults; we can offer our client fully integrated advertising offerings from non-linear to linear and on-the ground events. We are aware that clients are looking for fully integrated advertising package which Turner Africa is able to now do in South Africa and Nigeria” says Coffin.
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About the Turner Africa Channel Portfolio
Cartoon Network – Expect the Unexpected
More than 20 million Cartoon Network fans in South Africa alone, and many across the continent, can look forward to 325 hours of fresh content, throughout 2019, with 6 exclusive new series and 1 325 new episodes. The 2018 Sunday Times Generation Next Youth Survey gave further credence to Cartoon Network’s popularity in this market, with South African youth giving the channel the thumbs up for ‘Coolest Kids TV Channel’ in South Africa, while retaining its #2 spot in the overall ‘Coolest TV Channel’ category for the third year in a row! Through the channel’s new positioning, “To expect the Unexpected”, fans will be treated to new Cartoon Network originals, Apple and Onion, Craig of the Creek, Summer Camp Island and Victor and Valentino.

Boomerang – Watch. Laugh. Play
Boomerang brings its new positioning, “Watch. Laugh. Play” to life this November with a refreshed on-air look filled with hilarious idents, a vibrant colour palette and a tone of voice! The channel, well-loved by African kids aged four to eight-years-old*, will continue to offer a great line-up of shows from The Tom and Jerry Show, (voted ‘Coolest Animated Brand or Entertainment Characters’ in the Sunday Times Generation Next 2018 Youth Survey) to Grizzy and the Lemmings to The Happos Family and the latest Cyber Group Studios animation production with Taffy launching at the end of the year (World Premiere in Africa).

Boing – Better together
As the fun-filled playground where kids can share great stories with their friends, Boing offers a range of comedy and action shows to local African households across 21 countries. In 2019, the channel will premiere international animation references such as My knight and Me, DC Super Hero Girls and new seasons of The Jungle Bunch and Total Drama Action.

Toonami - The super-heroes destination
Toonami, the home of superheroes, targeting six to 12-year-old children and super-hero fans of all ages, is jam-packed with top-rated adventure and action series. In 2019, the channel will bring all super-heroes fans captivating, high-octane series with Lego DC comics shows series, and legendary slate of super-hero movies like Justice League Universe. Exclusive content, never seen in Africa, will also launch next year with new episodes of Dragon Ball Super and the release of another true anime phenomenon, Inazuma Eleven!

TNT – The American Blockbuster Destination
TCM – Powered by Movies revealed its slick new look in September, immersing audiences in creative and relevant programming specially tailored for African fans.  TNT is the culmination of TCM’s move to refresh its brand image and adapt its brand positioning; the channel moved away from its former global positioning in favour of a more bold and appealing positioning of the ‘American blockbuster destination’.