June 2026 On Nickelodeon Across Europe And Africa | Channel Premiere: Sonic Prime | Returning Shows: Rugrats (2021) | More

It's time to say goodbye to Nickelodeon's most iconic diaper-wearing characters, while we can finally welcome the blue hedgehog to the main channel as well.

As quiet as May was, June brings a packed schedule from the main Nickelodeon channel. The second half of the new Marsupilami premiere batch arrives with fresh episodes at the beginning of the month, continuing to air in the morning slots. After the little furballs, we stay on in early June with an unexpected continuation. It seems Rugrats is still not a favorite of the programming team, as the series gets no mention again from either Nickelodeon or Paramount. It last returned in March, also quite unexpectedly. Back then, Nickelodeon aired the remaining episodes of Season 2. Now, however, Season 3 arrives as a world premiere, once again with zero reruns. The premiere times favor night owls, as the new episodes start in the final quarter-hour of late evening.

The two evergreen characters, SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick Star, are returning with a shorter batch than usual. Instead of the usual two weeks, the iconic duo is back for just a single week in mid-June. For us, this means the 16th season of the series will conclude at the end of the month at 9:00 AM. Finally, we have a channel premiere: Sonic Prime, which was previously aired on the local Nicktoons almost exactly 11 months ago. The lightning-fast hedgehog arrives on Nickelodeon screens at the end of June, with the first season spilling slightly into July. The new series will debut in the morning, but thanks to the global feed, each day's episode will be shown in multiple time slots.

The Marsupilami

2026-06-04 09:45 1x10a Smile for the Camera

2026-06-05 09:45 1x10b School Invaders

2026-06-08 09:45 1x11a Musical Mayhem

2026-06-09 09:45 1x11b Purrfect Punch

2026-06-10 09:45 1x12 Mission Park / Mar-Spooky-Lami

2026-06-11 09:45 1x13 Golfalami / Mar-Sleepwalker

2026-06-12 09:45 1x14 Shell-shock / The Amazing Coat Man

Rugrats – New Season

2026-06-01 23:45 3x01 A Tiger's Tale / Grandchild of the Month – Season Premiere

2026-06-02 23:45 3x02 Bookworm / The Cookie Test

2026-06-03 23:45 3x03 Mudville / Stepping Stone

2026-06-04 23:45 3x04 Scooped / Class Pet

2026-06-05 23:45 3x05 Desert Trip

2026-06-06 23:45 3x06 Wild Doll / The Pest Plant

2026-06-07 23:45 3x07 Forest Friends / Castle Guy

2026-06-08 23:45 3x08 Tricycle Kid / Simply Simon

2026-06-09 23:45 3x09 New Year on Ice

2026-06-10 23:45 3x10 Flower Girl / Flight of the Finster

2026-06-11 23:45 3x11 The Toy Box / The Pit

2026-06-12 23:45 3x12 Dinner Guest / Bucket List

2026-06-13 23:45 3x13 Big Cake Day Part 1

2026-06-14 23:45 3x14 Big Cake Day Part 2 – Series Finale

Sonic Prime – New Series, Channel Premiere

2026-06-22 11:00 1x01 Shattered – Season Premiere

2026-06-23 11:00 1x02 The Yoke's on You 

2026-06-24 11:00 1x03 Escape from New York 

2026-06-25 11:00 1x04 Unwelcome to the Jungle

2026-06-26 11:00 1x05 Barking Up the Wrong Tree 

2026-06-29 11:00 1x06 Situation: Grim 

2026-06-30 11:00 1x07 It Takes One to No Place 

SpongeBob SquarePants

2026-06-15 09:00 16x11 Pigskin Pearl

2026-06-16 09:00 16x12a The Green Tentacle 

2026-06-17 09:00 16x12b Happy Krabby Birthday 

2026-06-18 09:00 16x13a Karate Pals 

2026-06-19 09:00 16x13b Karen's Klatch – Season Finale

This was originally published by Mentrum

Dragon Striker, Brand New Series Coming Soon To Disney Channel Across Italy, Spain And Africa

Set in the world of Asteria, Dragon Striker centers on a high-stakes magical sport called Gorotama—a five-a-side, soccer-like game enhanced with fantastical powers. The story follows Key, a 12-year-old farm boy who dreams of playing Gorotama at the elite school Kal Asterock, despite lacking magical abilities. That changes when he discovers a hidden connection to his late mother, a legendary champion known as the Dragon Striker.

Key’s journey introduces him to Ssyelle, a gifted player who can slow time and becomes a core part of the newly reformed team known as the Knights. Other teammates include Milo (who controls jelly), Oddward (who can duplicate himself), and the mysterious Ameline (who drains tamas). Standing in their way are rival squads like the Bards, Roses, Shadows, and the fearsome Dragons, led by Key’s new rival, Ragno.

The series, created and produced by Sylvain Dos Santos, will be directed by Charles Lefebvre from screenplays by writer Paul McKeown. Cyber Group Studios and La Chouette Compagnie produce for Disney EMEA.

Charles Lefebvre, the show's co-creator who also co-founded Chouette after working at its parent La Chouette Co., had worked on anime such as “My Hero Academia” and “One Piece”.

Originally set for a release in 2024, a preview of the new series was made available at the 2025 Annecy Animation Festival in France. The 22 20-minute episodes, will now on Disney Channel feeds across Spain, Italy and Africa from June 10th, and will also be streaming on Disney+.

Netflix Unveils First Looks At 'Charlie Vs. The Chocolate Factory' Film, Upcoming Anime Slate Including 'The One Piece', And Jason Reitman & Gil Kenan For 'Ghostbusters' Series

What’s New:

• Exclusive sneak peeks for Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory and THE ONE PIECE as part of the Next on Netflix Animation Showcase

• Anime Studio Focus featuring exclusive sneak peeks at THE ONE PIECE, Sparks of Tomorrow, THE RIBBON HERO, as well as anime-inspired series inspired by Japanese anime like Blue Eye Samurai’s season 2 (logline revealed) and Bass X Machina

• Concept Art for Brad Bird’s Ray Gunn; Aardman’s Peter Lord moderating the conversation with Brad Bird

• New Still & Release Date for Ricky Gervais’ Alley Cats

• Release Year for Ghostbusters Series; Jason Reitman & Gil Kenan attending

• A KPop Demon Hunters outdoor sing-along screening

Netflix returns to the Annecy International Animation Film Festival with a genre-spanning line-up of films and series featuring visionary filmmakers, as well as up-and-coming talent. This follows an unprecedented year for Netflix Animation, with the triumphant KPop Demon Hunters taking home a history-making two Oscars1, 13 Annie Awards wins including three for Love, Death + Robots, and Ultraman: Rising nabbing the Children and Family Emmys for Outstanding Animated Special and Sound Mixing & Sound Editing for an Animated Program.

A full rundown of Netflix’s Annecy activity includes: 

Steps Work-in-Progress session at Salle Pierre Lamy on Tuesday, 23 June with directors Alyce Tzue and John Ripa, art director Dan Casey, and head of character animation Jason Figliozzi, who will share their creative insights on the re-imagining of the classic Cinderella tale, told from the perspective of one of the so-called “evil” step-sisters. 

Also on Tuesday, Netflix will host a dedicated Anime Studio Focus titled “Netflix Anime: Bold Stories, Boundless Worlds” at la Salle de la Volière. As the home for anime with more than 150 million Netflix members around the world choosing to watch it, this session is set to be a must-see showcase of the very best of anime for every taste and mood, whether you’re a hard-core fan, casual viewer or a beginner to the medium. Buckle up for an in-depth look at the upcoming slate led by THE ONE PIECE, Sparks of Tomorrow, THE RIBBON HERO; as well as anime-inspired series Blue Eye Samurai’s season 2 and Bass X Machina.

Next on Netflix Animation: from Ghostbusters to Brad Bird’s Ray Gunn returns to Théâtre Bonlieu on Wednesday, 24 June. Executive producers Jason Reitman, Gil Kenan, and showrunners/Executive Producers Ben Hibon and Elliott Kalan will unveil a world exclusive preview of next year’s Ghostbusters series produced in partnership with Sony Pictures Animation. And visionary director Brad Bird will take to the stage and provide a very personal insight into his animated feature Ray Gunn, his 30+ year in the making passion project produced at Skydance Animation; this conversation will be moderated by stop-motion legend, Peter Lord, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Aardman who are also celebrating their 50th anniversary this year. Additionally, the session will feature glimpses at THE ONE PIECE series and the Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory animated film.

A masterclass with multi-award-winning comedy genius Ricky Gervais at Théâtre Bonlieu follows on Thursday, 25 June. Ricky serves as creator and director on his upcoming adult comedy series Alley Cats and will participate in a moderated conversation. Audiences will also get an early look at two episodes ahead of its debut on Netflix on Friday, 7 August.

THE RIBBON HERO will have its world premiere as part of the festival’s Annecy Presents programming.

To celebrate the first anniversary since KPop Demon Hunters became a global and cultural phenomenon, there will be an outdoor sing-along screening on Wednesday, 24 June by Lake Annecy. 

And finally, Sparks of Tomorrow (Episode 1), Long Story Short (Episode - “Shira Can’t Cook”) and Love, Death + Robots (Episode - “How Zeke Got Religion”) will compete in Annecy’s Official TV Films Competition. 

1 The first non-Disney/Pixar animated film ever to win more than one, and Netflix’s second animated film to win the Oscar in 4 years.

Film:

CHARLIE VS. THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY

Release date: 2027

Synopsis: Willy Wonka (Waititi) has spent the years since the Golden Ticket contest behind bars (not the chocolate kind) for the crime of turning a child into a blueberry. Having served his time, Wonka returns to his factory determined to add a little sweetness to a bitter world. But one thing stands in his way: teenager Charlie Paley (Connor) and his friends. Facing eviction, this next generation of “rotten” kids plot to break into the factory, nab a priceless Wonka Bar, and save their homes. But like many before them who enter the fantastical world of the factory, these kids are in for a bit more than they can chew...

Directors: Jared Stern & Elaine Bogan

Producers: Aron Warner, Timothy Yoo

Executive Producer: Taika Waititi

Cast: Kit Connor and Taika Waititi

Animation Studio: Sony Pictures Imageworks

Asset: First Look Image

RAY GUNN

Release date: 2026

Logline: In Metropia, a gigantic city in an alternate future as seen from 1939, private eye Raymond Gunn is drawn into a case involving aliens, murder and a multimedia star named Venus Nova.  

Director: Brad Bird

Producers: John Lasseter, David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, and Lisa Beroud

Cast: Sam Rockwell, Scarlett Johansson, Tom Waits

Animation Studio: Skydance Animation

Images: First Look Images; Concept Art

STEPS

Release date: 2026

Synopsis: Think you know Cinderella's “evil” stepsisters? Think again! When misunderstood Lilith (Ali Wong) is blamed for hijacking the Royal Ball with a stolen magic wand, she accidentally turns her sister Margot (Stephanie Hsu) into a frog and leaves the kingdom in the hands of a prince-obsessed mean girl. Now Lilith must team up with Cinderella (Amanda Seyfried) (and a surprisingly dreamy troll) to save the kingdom, repair the fractured fairytale, and prove that even so-called villains deserve a shot at happily-ever-after.

Directors: Alyce Tzue & John Ripa 

Produced by: Amy Poehler, Jane Hartwell, Kim Lessing. Poehler and Lessing producing for Paper Kite Productions.

Cast: Ali Wong, Amanda Seyfried, Stephanie Hsu

Animation Studio: Netflix Animation Studios

Images: Images

THE RIBBON HERO

Release date: August, 2026

Director: Yuki Igarashi

Inspired By: “Princess Knight” by Osamu Tezuka

Original Character Design: Kei Mochizuki

Character Design Cooperation: Mai Yoneyama

Animation Character Design: Issei Arakaki

Art Director: Cedric Herole

Production Company: Twin Engine

Animation Studio: Outline

LOGLINE: Yuki Igarashi, regarded as one of the industry’s most versatile animators, directs the film. He first drew wide attention for the sophisticated animation he handled alone as key animator on the ending sequence of Jujutsu Kaisen Season 1. His directorial debut, Star Wars: Visions - Lop & Ochō, received high praise in Japan and abroad for its delicate storytelling and dynamic action scenes. THE RIBBON HERO marks Igarashi’s first time directing a feature-length film.

Bringing together a team of highly skilled creators, the film depicts the story of a lone hero who chooses to defy a harsh destiny, set in a delicately crafted world and brought to life through polished action.

Images: Teaser Art

Series:

ALLEY CATS

Release date: August 7, 2026

Synopsis: Alley Cats is a sitcom created by and starring the multi award-winning Ricky Gervais. The adult animation follows the trials and tribulations of a group of feral British cats from all walks of society, who seek companionship while ruminating on everyday life. From the funny to the absurd, the series is packed with Gervais’ signature style of heart and social commentary that audiences have come to expect.

Creator and Director: Ricky Gervais

Co-director: Elliot Dear

Executive Producers: Ricky Gervais, Steven Hamilton Shaw

Production Designer:Tang Heng

Cast: Ricky Gervais, Tom Basden, Andrew Brooke, David Earl, Kerry Godliman, Jo Hartley, Diane Morgan, and also featuring Natalie Cassidy and Tony Way

Animation Studio: Blink Industries

Asset: New Image 

BASS X MACHINA 

Release date: Coming Soon

Synopsis: In a lawless Steampunk West overrun by brutal outlaws, machines, and supernatural terrors, a father is forced to become judge, jury, and executioner—knowing that every act of justice meant to protect his family may ultimately cost him the very people he’s fighting to save.

Executive Producers: Brian Tyree Henry, LeSean Thomas, Jennifer Wiley-Moxley, Chad Handley

Animation Studio: Studio Mir

Images: Images

BLUE EYE SAMURAI - Season 2

Release date: Coming Soon

Logline: In season 2, Mizu’s bloody quest continues in London, where she faces new friends, old foes, and her own demons. In Japan, Akemi and Taigen navigate Edo Castle under a dangerous new Shogun, while Ringo searches for new purpose.

Created by: Amber Noizumi and Michael Green

Executive Producers: Amber Noizumi and Michael Green

Animation Studio: Blue Spirit

Images: Images

Untitled GHOSTBUSTERS Series

Release date: 2027

Logline: Hailing from Netflix and Sony Pictures Animation, the high end animated series based on the beloved Ghostbusters IP will debut exclusively on Netflix in 2027.

Executive Producers: Ben Hibon, Elliott Kalan, Jason Reitman, Gil Kenan, and Amie Karp  

SPARKS OF TOMORROW

Release date: July 5 2026

Synopsis: In an alternate version of the early 20th century where technological progress evolved along a different path shaped by steam power, Kyoto is blanketed in constant smoke. A boy, hardened by the loss of his brother, grows distrustful after their shared dream of an “Age of Electricity” is cut short. A deeply devout girl hides her dreams and regrets for her deceased mother deep within her heart. When the two cross paths, they set about exploring the secrets of the 20th Century Electrical Catalog, a glimpse into the future they long for. Together, they must confront their pasts and carve a path toward the future they once believed in.

Director: Minoru Ota

Animation Studio: Kyoto Animation 

Images: Key Art

THE ONE PIECE 

Release date: February 2027

Original manga by: Eiichiro Oda (Weekly Shonen Jump, Shueisha)

Synopsis: Produced by WIT Studio, THE ONE PIECE is a brand new anime adaptation starting from the very beginning of the original manga’s East Blue saga. Separate from the TV anime series that has charged full speed ahead over the course of more than 25 years, this series taps into the expressive potential of modern technology to offer a familiar yet fresh take on the adventures of Luffy. 

Director: Masashi Koizuka

Assistant Director: Hideaki Abe

Series Composition: Taku Kishimoto

Character Design & Chief Animation Directors: Kyoji Asano, Takatoshi Honda

Creature Design & Image Boards: Yasuhiro Kajino

Prop Design: Eri Taguchi

Action Animators: Ken Imaizumi, Shuhei Fukuda

Art Director: Tomonori Kuroda

Animation Producer: Ryoma Kawamura

Animation Studio: WIT STUDIO

Images: Concept Art

Clifford The Big Red Dog Is Back With Reimagined Animated Series On PBS KIDS

PBS KIDS announced the production of the newest animated series for kids ages 3-5 based on the beloved Scholastic book series by Norman Bridwell, CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG®. The series is inspired by the importance of community and will introduce important foundational social skills, including understanding how to engage in social problem-solving, joining groups, making friends, and including others, as well as modeling how even young children can play a contributing role in their communities. The reimagined buddy comedy centers around Emily Elizabeth, a kid with big-hearted ideas, and her giant best friend Clifford, who turns small problems into gloriously oversized adventures – literally! With 9 Story Media Group (SUPER WHY’S COMIC BOOK ADVENTURES, DANIEL TIGER’S NEIGHBORHOOD) producing and the award-winning studio, Brown Bag Films*, animating, CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG is slated to premiere on PBS KIDS in 2027.

“Clifford has been a favorite with children and families for generations, and we can’t wait to reintroduce this Big Red Dog to PBS KIDS audiences across the country,” said Sara DeWitt, Senior Vice President and General Manager, PBS KIDS and Education. “Giving kids the skills, knowledge, and encouragement they need to connect with others and sustain relationships is more vital than ever to prepare them for success in school and life.”

“Since he first filled a page, CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG captured the heart of Scholastic and his adventures connected with readers everywhere, creating remarkable, global recognition,” said Iole Lucchese, Scholastic Chief Strategy Officer, President of Scholastic Entertainment and Executive Producer for Clifford. “This new series builds on Clifford’s most endearing traits through fresh storytelling, creating new opportunities for audiences and marking an exciting step in the continued growth of the franchise.”

“With this next chapter, we’re leaning into a more comedic approach that amplifies the scale and playfulness of Clifford, while staying grounded in the warmth and emotional connection audiences have always loved,” said Vince Commisso, President and CEO of 9 Story Media Group and Executive Producer for Clifford. “We’re also proud to once again partner with PBS KIDS, a trusted home for a brand that has resonated with families for generations.”

CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG by Norman Bridwell was first published in 1963 by Scholastic and now boasts more than 135 million books in print in 20 languages distributed worldwide. This new series will include 26 new episodes, comprised of two 11-minute stories, and an interactive game designed to extend the fun and social skill development for preschoolers. These additions join the already expansive and award-winning library of Clifford content currently available on PBS KIDS, including episodes from both the 2019 and 2000 animated series, as well as three games. The upcoming reimagined CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG series was developed by 9 Story Media Group. Jason Hopley (NANALAN’, BIG AND SMALL, CORN & PEG) is Head Writer and Cory Bobiak (PEG + CAT, XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM) is Director. 9 Story holds worldwide distribution and consumer products rights. The series was commissioned by PBS KIDS (US), CBC (Canada), and Sky Kids (UK).

*Brown Bag Films Toronto is a business unit of 9 Story Media Group.

Recap: May The 4th Be With You As Disney Unveils Themes Events And Programming

- Mando Mondays announced at Comic Con Africa Cape Town In Celebration of Lucasfilm’s Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu Hitting Cinemas Nationwide on 22 May 

- May The 4th is a beloved commemoration of the Star Wars saga

- Galactic Programming Across Disney Channels and Disney+

- An Array of Star Wars Product from LEGO® to Figurines and Plush Available

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, 4 May 2026; In celebration of International Star Wars Day, Disney Africa today has announced Mando Mondays – a fan-driven celebration of the upcoming action-adventure must-see cinematic event from Lucasfilm, Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu.

In the film, the evil Empire has fallen, and Imperial warlords remain scattered throughout the galaxy. As the fledgling New Republic works to protect everything the Rebellion fought for, they have enlisted the help of legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his young apprentice Grogu. Directed by Jon Favreau, Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu also stars Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White.

Ahead of the film’s release from 22 May 2026, and as announced at a fan-filled Star Wars face off at Comic Con Cape Town this past weekend, Disney Africa is calling on South African fans to get in on the celebrations by visiting the Star Wars and Disney Studios Africa Facebook and Instagram pages to keep up to date on news and competitions to be announced throughout May. More competitions featuring the latest Star Wars products will be in hand through influencer unboxings and reveals, and there’s a galaxy to discover each Monday exclusively on Takealot, with a live shopping experience today only on Takealot.com. 

Burger King® is bringing the Force to flame-grilling with the launch of a limited-time menu inspired by Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu. Rolling out from 27 April in South Africa the new menu combines bold flavours, immersive packaging and exclusive collectibles to create a truly galactic experience for fans of all ages.  

This Is The Way… To Binge It All On Disney+

Lucasfilm’s acclaimed and celebrated series Maul: Shadow Lord premiere’s its last two episodes on 4 May and adds to the enthralling story of the iconic Maul, a former Sith, who is plotting to rebuild the Shadow Collective crime syndicate to aid in his relentless pursuit of revenge.

As the home of Star Wars, Disney+ has a galaxy of stories awaiting including the complete Star Wars Saga, original series from Ahsoka and Andor, to incredible animated offerings like The Clone Wars and The Bad Batch, to documentaries and specials and much, much more for every Star Wars fan to celebrate on May the 4th and beyond.

Discover Special Programming

Disney Channel (DStv Channel 303) viewers are in for a treat as two LEGO® Star Wars series premiere on the channel. From 4-7 May at 16:30 (CAT), LEGO® Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy sees the entire Star Wars Galaxy getting completely mixed up when an ordinary nerf-herder, Sig Greebling, unearths a powerful artifact from a hidden Jedi Temple. Then from 11-14 May at 16:30 (CAT) LEGO® Star Wars: Rebuild The Galaxy Pieces of the Past sees Sig, Jedi Bob, Yesi, Servo and the villainous Dev return and must face off against a new enemy – the powerful and mysterious Solitus. Our heroes will make unlikely alliances as they traverse new and dangerous parts of the hilariously mixed-up galaxy in an effort to stop the growing threat Solitus poses to all they hold dear.

The Most Wanted product in the Universe

Retailers nationwide will stock the latest and greatest collectibles, accessories and toys for the whole family from the exclusive Star Wars: Most Wanted celebration.

Highlights include the LEGO® BB-8 Astromech Droid Building Toy, lightsabers for any Padawan or Jedi and an array of Star Wars plush toys. In anticipation for the release of Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu, fans can collect a number of fun products from Hasbro including the interactive animatronic figure Star Wars: Adventure Buddy Grogu, Star Wars: Huggin Grogu Figure with motion-activated hugging arms and sound effects as well as the Star Wars: Snacking Grogu featuring expressive movements, sound effects and interactive feeding play. LEGO® will also offer the Star Wars: Grogu™ (Mandalorian Apprentice) building set, a must-add for any collector.

May the 4th Be With You

Say “May the 4th Be With You” out loud and you’ll hear the pun that Star Wars fans worldwide have turned into a rallying cry to proclaim their love of the saga.

Today - 4 May - is the day to say “May the Force be with you” to all and celebrate the beloved Star Wars story that binds our galaxy together. From dressing up as their favourite characters, reliving the classic film moments by holding Star Wars movie marathons, holding Star Wars-themed parties (complete with blue milk and Death Star Popcorn Balls, Wookie Cookies and more) – the only limit is a fans imagination that stretches a galaxy (far, far away)! Discover more: https://www.starwars.com/star-wars-day.

PAC-MAN Launches New Animated Shorts, Live Events & Collabs For ‘PAC-MAY’

Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. is powering up this month to celebrate PAC-MAN’s birthday with PAC-MAY. Using the theme “Connect the Dots,” the month-long celebration promises exciting announcements and activations commemorating one of video games’ most iconic characters, who debuted in 1980. The “Connect the Dots” theme aims to bridge the past and present as well as usher in the future of PAC-MAN through the lens of storytelling.

Leading up to PAC-MAN Day, May 22 marks the debut of PAC-MAN: Snack Breaks, a new 2D-animated short series in partnership with New York-based studio Cartuna that is sure to delight multi-generational audiences and long-time fans alike. The birthday celebration extends to live events including The Paley Museum PAC-MAN CHOMPIONSHIP Tournament along with other fan events in New York City and Los Angeles. Coming up, Bandai Namco and Halfbrick Studios will serve up a treat for gamers with the Fruit Ninja x PAC-MAN crossover.

PAC-MAY kicked off with the first teaser trailer of the PAC-MAN: Snack Breaks animated shorts. Bandai Namco Entertainment, in partnership with animation studio Cartuna, produced the animated series, which follows PAC-MAN as he leaves PAC-Village for the fast-paced, neon sprawl of NEW PAC-CITY, where everyday life bursts into high-speed, snack-fueled adventures. With Team Ghost always on his tail, PAC-MAN’s boundless optimism is the ultimate power-up. By combining action, high-energy comedy and inventive worldbuilding, the new series honors the franchise’s iconic history while launching PAC-MAN into a bold new chapter of adventures in NEW PAC-CITY and beyond.

Directed by Noah Pardo (Lost in McDonaldland, Powerline Live! A Goofy Movie 360° Concert Experience) with lead producers Adam Belfer, James Belfer, Monica Mazel, Garrett Beltis and Ben Bishop, the series features a bold, retro-inspired visual identity and fast-paced comedic storytelling tailored to digital audiences. The principal cast features Mike Cefalo as PAC-MAN and Inky, Mike Bodie (Quokka’s Wild Life, Angry Birds on the Run) as Blinky, Rebecca Wang (Beyblade X, Solo Leveling) as Pinky and Lukas Arnold as Clyde.

PAC-MAN: Snack Breaks will launch on the official PAC-MAN YouTube Channel on May 22 with new episodes debuting each month.

Continuing PAC-MAN’s month-long celebration, Bandai Namco will be hosting various events across the U.S. for fans of all ages to participate. In New York City, a birthday event coinciding with the “45 Years of PAC-MAN” exhibition at The Paley Museum will be held on May 16 with a PAC-MAN: Snack Breaks panel and special screenings of the premiere episode before its official debut. The event will also include classic games to play, PAC-MAN meet & greets, iconic artifacts to view, crafts for kids and giveaways. The Paley Museum will also let fans of all ages compete in the PAC-MAN CHOMPIONSHIP tournament, where players will compete for the highest score in the classic PAC-MAN arcade game with the highest score taking home the grand prize and the title of “PAC-MAN NYC Chompion 2026.” More live events will be announced in the coming weeks.

PAC-MAN promotions will also take place for gamers of all ages, serving up Ghost-Chomping action in a special collaboration with Fruit Ninja starting May 6 where players can participate in four PAC-MAN-themed in-game events to unlock blades, dojos and special rewards. Bandai Namco Entertainment America Inc. also has a gift for all PAC-MAN WORLD 2 Re-PAC players: a new free costume following on from the Holiday Costume. To celebrate PAC-MAN’s birthday, this free costume will be added to Nova’s Costume Shop. Put it on and set off on a grand adventure through Pac-Land.

‘Casper’ Live-Action Series In Works At Disney+

In a very competitive situation involving a five-way bidding war, Disney+ has landed a new series take on Casper the Friendly Ghost.

The live-action project comes from Rob Letterman and Hilary Winston, executive producers of another Disney+ supernatural series, Goosebumps; Steven Spielberg, who executive produced the 1995 Universal movie Casper starring Christina Ricci; and UCP, a division of Universal Studio Group.

There are no details yet about the new Casper, described as a modern update on the classic ghost story, which is in the early stages of development. It is believed to have a dark edge to it the way Wednesday tackles the Addams Family lore.

Letterman and Winston are writing, with Letterman set to direct. The duo are executive producing with Spielberg.

Casper originated as an affable translucent ghost featured in a string of animated movies by Famous Studios released between 1945 and 1959. That’s when the character was acquired by Harvey Comics, which had published Casper comics since 1952. Since then, Casper has headlined a slew of comic books, five animated TV series as well as Universal Pictures’ 1995 live-action feature Casper, produced by Spielberg’s Amblin Entertainment and The Harvey Entertainment Co. 

In 2001, Harvey Entertainment was acquired by Classic Media. In 2012, Classic Media was bought by DreamWorks Animation, which in turn was acquired by Universal Pictures parent NBCUniversal in 2016, explaining why the potential Disney+ series is a co-production between DreamWorks Animation TV and UCP.

Like was the case in the 1995 Casper movie, which starred Ricci, Bill Pullman as well as Malachi Pearson as the voice of the title character, the new live-action series is expected to feature CGI effects.

If Casper, which has a premium development deal, goes to series, it will be Universal Studio Group’s first on Disney+. I hear that was a consideration when choosing the winner in the bidding war as having shows on all major streamers has been a goal for the studio. USG’s Universal TV has several series on Netflix, including A Man on the Inside, The Four Seasons as well as new medical drama Lovesick starring Claire Danes, which just landed there with a straight-to-series order, also in a competitive situation.

On Prime Video, the studio has We Were Liars, at Apple TV the upcoming Cape Fear and at HBO Max Hacks and The Gilded Age. At Hulu, UCP recently produced Murdaugh: Death in the Family, and Universal TV just sold for development bodyguard drama Close Protection.

In 2022, UCP set up for development at sibling streamer Peacock a different Casper live-action series, written/executive produced by The Ghost Bride head writer Kai Yu Wu, which ultimately did not go forward.

This is a rare Disney+ series project based on famous IP that is not from within the Disney ecosystem or derived from books. If Casper goes to series, the character will co-exist on the platform alongside famous Disney ghost characters, including The Nightmare Before Christmas‘ dog Zero.

Letterman developed the 2023 Goosebumps, based on the book series by R. L. Stine, with Nicholas Stoller. Letterman, who had directed the 1995 Goosebumps feature, was an executive producer/director and Winston an executive producer/showrunner on the series, which ran on Disney+ and Hulu for two seasons. Letterman’s feature credits include Monsters vs. Aliens and Pokémon: Detective Pikachu, which he co-wrote and directed. He is repped by UTA, Untitled Entertainment, and attorney Eric Sherman.

Winston serves as an executive producer and co-showrunner on the current second season of Fox’s comedy series Going Dutch. Her writing-producing credits also include Krapopolis, Community, Happy Endings, My Name is Earl and well as CBS’ Bad Teacher, which she developed. Her feature writing credits include The Lego Ninjago Movie and The Bad Guys. Winston is repped by UTA, Rise Management and Yorn Levine Barnes.

Madagascar: A Little Wild, Brand New Series Launches On Play Room

Play Room, a South African based children's channel offering animated and live-action content is launching a new series, Madagascar: A Little Wild. This will be their second show from DreamWorks Animation following Fast And Furious: Spy Racers. 

Madagascar: A Little Wild will broadcast daily on Play Room at 10:25 from Monday 11 May. The series had already been broadcast on DreamWorks Channel, eToonz, Netflix and Showmax.

Filled with original music and dance worthy songs, Madagascar: A Little Wild captures the beloved personalities of the Zoo Crew — Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe and Gloria the Hippo — reimagined as kids residing in their rescue habitat at the Central Park Zoo. They might be small, but like everybody who lands in New York City, these little guys have big dreams.

From executive producer Johanna Stein (Kung Fu Panda: The Paws of Destiny) and co-executive producer Dana Starfield (Monster High: Welcome to Monster High), Madagascar: A Little Wild features the voices of Tucker Chandler (I Lost My Body) as “Alex,” Amir O’Neil (Mann and Wife) as “Marty,” Shaylin Becton (Fast & Furious: Spy Racers) as “Gloria,” Luke Lowe (Big City Greens) as “Melman,” Jasmine Gatewood (Animal Kingdom) as “Kate” and Eric Petersen (Kirstie) as “Ant’Ney.”

Spanning four feature films that have made more than $2.2 billion at the worldwide box-office, cherished shorts, holiday specials and the Emmy Award-winning series All Hail King Julien, the Madagascar franchise has been a global fan favorite for the past 15 years.

May 2026 On Disney Channel And Disney Junior Across Africa | Channel Premiere: Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy | Returning Shows: Spidey And His Amazing Friends | More

Disney Channel 

Vampirina: Teenage Vampire | Season 1

MON - THUR AT 17:00 CAT

Vee leaves Transylvania for boarding school to chase her musical dreams. As she keeps her vampire identity a secret, unexpected obstacles threaten to return her to the shadows.

Lego Star Wars: Rebuild the Galaxy

MON - THUR AT 16:30 CAT

The entire Star Wars Galaxy gets completely mixed up when an ordinary nerf -herder, Sig Greebling, unearths a powerful artifact from a hidden Jedi temple.

Lego Star Wars: Pieces of the Past

MON - THURS AT 16:30 CAT

Our heroes will make unlikely alliances as they traverse new and dangerous parts of the hilariously mixed-up galaxy in an effort to stop the growing threat Solitus poses to all they hold dear.

Star vs The Forces of Evil

WEEKDAYS AT 16:30 CAT

Star Butterfly is an unusual princess, a feisty girl who is sent by her parents to Earth from another world for safety, and changes the lives of all around her, while also fighting the baddies.

Our Weekly Movie Spot

FRIDAYS AT 5PM

Zapped

FRI 01 MAY AT 5PM

(2014) Shake It Up’s Zendaya stars in this hilarious film as a bright student and talented dancer struggling with changes in life, including a new family and school, who finds a phone app that controls boys!

The Suite Life Movie

FRI 08 MAY AT 5PM

(2011) In their first feature film, Zack and Cody are approached to join a research project about twins. They find themselves connected in ways they've never been before, which proves very dangerous…

Big City Greens the Movie: Spacecation

FRI 15 MAY AT 5PM

(2012) In this all-singing, all-dancing Disney Channel Original movie a young musician writes a song for the girl he loves. He wins a contest but his friend gets the credit. Will he get the girl too?

Toy Story 2

FRI 29 MAY AT 5PM

(1999) The toys are back in town as Tom Hanks and Tim Allen star in a toy-rrific sequel. Woody is kidnapped, so Buzz and friends rush to the rescue, in another delightful animated adventure.

Disney Channel 20th Anniversary Stunts

Throwback Block

MON-THU AT 17:50 CAT

06 - 30 APRIL

A Live-Action block for both kids and adults alike! Vote on social media:

Hannah Montana S3 vs Shake It Up.

Electric Bloom Weekend Stunt

SAT 02 & SUN 03 MAY

FROM 11:55

A curated collection of favourite Electric Bloom episodes.

Vampirina: Teenage Vampire Stunt

SAT 09 - SUN 10 MAY

FROM 11:55 CAT

A curated collection of favourite Vampirina: Teenage Vampire episodes.

Disney Junior 

Iron Man and His Awesome Friends Season 1

MON - FRI AT 08:05 CAT

"Marvel’s Iron Man and his Awesome Friends” follows the adventures of best friends and super geniuses as they work together to solve problems and protect their city.

Spidey And His Amazing Friends Season 1

MON - FRI AT 09:00 CAT

The Spidey heroes take to the high seas with their new Water -Web suits and their new friend, Jeff the Land Shark. Together, they protect the sea and the city.

May 2026 On Cartoon Network And Cartoonito Across Africa | Channel Premiere: Baby Lemmings | Returning Shows: Pokémon - Ultimate Journeys | More

Cartoon Network

• Regular Show: The Lost Tapes: The countdown is on for the return of Regular Show on Cartoon Network, as fans prepare to dive back into the chaotic, laugh-out-loud world of Mordecai and Rigby. The Emmy® Award-winning fan favourite is back with even more wild adventures, unforgettable characters and park-side mayhem, kicking off with Regular Show: The Lost Tapes on Monday, 11 May at 17:20 CAT.

• Pokémon: Ultimate Journeys: The season culminates the research fellowship adventures of Ash Ketchum and Goh, as they travel across all eight regions, including the new Galar region and the Galar region's Crown Tundra. NEW EPISODES 

Cartoonito

• Baby Lemmings: Cartoonito welcomes Baby Lemmings, a fun new series set in the Canadian forest, where every day is a playground and every challenge is an adventure. The Baby Lemmings share their joyful outlook with their animal friends, proving that with teamwork and creativity, anything is possible. The series premieres on Monday, 25 May and airs Monday to Friday at 17:00 CAT with two new episodes daily.

 

• Batwheels: Superpowered vehicles Bam, Bibi, Red, Jett and Buff join forces to fight crimes and protect citizens trapped in dangerous situations in Gotham City. They are thrust into hilarious hijinks as they learn important lessons. NEW EPISODES 

Other developments

This Mother’s Day, Cartoon Network and Cartoonito are celebrating moms with special episode stunts launching on Mother’s Day, Sunday, 10 May. Cartoon Network’s The Superest Mom – Gumball Special Stunt spotlights Nicole Watterson, while Cartoonito’s Happy Mother’s Day! Stunt brings together a fan-favourite mix of heartwarming episodes from beloved shows.

 

May 2026 On Nick Jr. Across Europe And Africa | Channel Premiere: Rubble & Crew S4 | Returning Shows: Ben And Holly's Little Kingdom | More

-- Brand new episodes of Rubble & Crew season four:

- 2026-05-04 06:45 4x05a The Crew Builds A Conveyor Belt Restaurant

- 2026-05-05 06:45 4x05b The Crew Cooks Up A Community Soup

- 2026-05-06 06:45 4x06a The Crew Fixes The Observatory

- 2026-05-07 06:45 4x06b The Crew Builds A Meow Yard

-- Deer Squad season four:

- 2026-05-18 07:50 4x01 Out Of The Ice Part 1 & 2 - season four premiere

- 2026-05-19 07:50 4x02 Buns In Space / Scratch And Sniff

- 2026-05-20 07:50 4x03 Penguin Peril / Fix It Fair

- 2026-05-21 07:50 4x04 Dojobot / A Shark's Life

- 2026-05-22 07:50 4x05 Strength Of Steel / Bubbles, Bubbles, Lots Of Trouble

- 2026-05-25 07:50 4x06 Slushy Storm / Cowboy Steel

- 2026-05-26 07:50 4x07 Rise Of The Sub-Zero Sub / Balloon Bonanza

- 2026-05-27 07:50 4x08 Steel Man Steel / The Mystery Heroes

- 2026-05-28 07:50 4x09 Winter Is Coming / Kite Fright

- 2026-05-29 07:50 4x10 Musical Mayhem / Dinobadbot

-- Returning shows:

- Ben & Holly's Little Kingdom:

From Monday 11th May 2026, airing daily at 09:30, 16:00 and 02:10

- The Creature Cases:

From Monday 18th May 2026, airing daily at 14:40 (one-and-a-half episodes each day)

Development Alert: The Loud House Will Be Returning To Nicktoons For Viewers Across Africa

During the year, Paramount shuttered it's door for consumers in Africa affecting the distribution of BET and MTV Base. MultiChoice had since then sought out Base Pulse to fill up the gap left by MTV Base while certain BET shows found its way to MTV.

Paramount had also restructured it's feed for Nickelodeon with consumers outside of Africa now able to watch The Loud House. As some viewers can recall, the show was banned in Kenya by 2015/6 even though Nickelodeon offered censorship.

The KFCB was also responsible for the ban of Gravity Falls and Steven Universe but in recent years these shows had resurfaced so it's likely the ban was removed. Of course, these shows continue to be censored for viewers outside of South Africa.

Nicktoons, an animation channel that features shows from Nickelodeon and Nick Jr. will also be airing The Loud House. This wouldn't be the first time it appeared on the channel as it aired back in 2021/2 but never got to complete season 1.

We can only assume that Paramount is now making The Loud House available on Nicktoons as a means to align the channel with it's European counterpart.

Nickelodeon and Nick Jr. formed part of these endeavours for sometime which is why their ads remain text less as they're shared across regions. With Nickelodeon operating under two feeds known as Global Unlimited (SA) and Global Limited (ROA).

Nick In Your Language and NickMusic served as the variations from other global feeds for Nicktoons. But with Paramount Africa that shuttered its doors it appears these endeavours had been wind down I mean MTV doesn't air any local programming.

NickMusic had not been seen on the channel it's likely the decision to close MTV's music channels affected the show indirectly. While Nick In Your Language remains on the air there's been zero advertising about it by the company.

The Loud House is eyeing a debut on the channel in June following it's return to Nickelodeon in other parts of Africa earlier in the year.

eToonz And ePlesier Are Believed To Have The Least Amount Of Viewers

eToonz is a South African based children's channel that offers a mixture of animated and live-action shows alongside films. This includes MasterChef Junior, Hank Zipzer, DreamWorks Dragons: Race To The Edge and Angelina Ballerina.

ePlesier serves as a dedicated channel to older shows viewed on e.tv and eExtra's Kuiertyd. These would include Kelders Van Geheime, Annekan Die Swa Kry, Doodsondes and Stiletto Vendetta.

As mentioned, eMedia Investments had published it's ratings cards for all of its 8 channels. It's through this where one can get some pointers on how these channels are performing overall and things aren't looking for eToonz.

It serves as one of the company's longest running channels alongside e.tv, eMovies and eNCA through a separate agreement with MultiChoice. But in terms of investment and marketing the channel is lagging behind its other comrades.

Even ePlesier despite only serving reruns and only packaged on Openview has more viewers than eToonz. You can only conclude this as eMedia Investments charges advertisers more money for ePlesier than they would with eToonz.

This news doesn't come as surprise as Canal+ and Warner Bros. Discovery were in a dispute last year regarding the carriage of their 12 channels including Cartoon Network and Cartoonito.

Warner Bros. Discovery revealed Cartoon Network was responsible for 50% of kids viewing on DStv. This would mean eToonz formed part of the other 50% alongside Disney Channel and Nickelodeon.

eToonz is a channel that is also distributed on DStv so viewers are going to expect that the channel is getting it's money's worth but for ePlesier to rack more dough is kinda depressing.

But from what was understood about Cartoon Network, a percentage of these viewers are adults. You can understand why ePlesier might have gotten the upper hand because kids prefer YouTube and TikTok while a majority on linear TV are adults.

ePlesier likely factored in what led to kill off primetime in the afternoon for daily repeats of Sout Van Die Aarde, Yosef and Bittersoet. Reruns can draw a decent amount of viewers and potential revenue it's like that with e.tv and Mr. Bones. 

May 2026 On Nickelodeon and NickToons Across Europe And Africa | Returning Shows Including Pinky Malinky And The Loud House | More

Nickelodeon

-- Brand new episodes of The Loud House season 10:

- 2026-05-04 10:00 10x03a Spy Dames

- 2026-05-05 10:00 10x03b Cupid's Harrow

- 2026-05-06 10:00 10x04a Clyde Can't Decide

- 2026-05-07 10:00 10x04b Shred of Evidence

- 2026-05-08 10:00 10x05a One False Move

- 2026-05-11 10:00 10x05b Personal Train Wreck

- 2026-05-12 10:00 10x08a My Phony Valentine

- 2026-05-13 10:00 10x08b Man Of My Schemes

- 2026-05-14 10:00 10x12a Student of the Jeer

- 2026-05-15 10:00 10x12b Bean Dreams

-- Brand new episodes of The Marsupilamis:

- 2026-05-25 09:45 1x06a The Heat is on

- 2026-05-26 09:45 1x06b Dig disaster

- 2026-05-27 09:45 1x07a Stan's showtime

- 2026-05-28 09:45 1x07b The Truth is Out There

- 2026-05-29 09:45 1x08a Howling Hope

- 2026-05-31 14:45 1x08b Mar-Smoothie-Lami

- 2026-05-31 14:55 1x09 Party Party / Mica's Robot

Nicktoons 

* Channel premiere for viewers outside Africa

-- The brand new show Pinky Malinky (channel premiere):

- 2026-05-01 14:30 1x10 Sensei / Hangout

- 2026-05-02 11:10 1x09 Fun / Brother

- 2026-05-03 11:10 1x11 Sock / Count

- 2026-05-05 14:30 1x12a Phone

- 2026-05-06 14:30 1x13 Friend / Gym

- 2026-05-07 14:30 1x14 List / Double

- 2026-05-08 14:30 1x15 Sight / Grounded

- 2026-05-11 14:30 1x16 Bestie / Smile

- 2026-05-12 14:30 1x17 Search / Individual

- 2026-05-13 14:30 1x18 Cranky / Weeds

- 2026-05-14 14:30 1x19 Song / Trophy

- 2026-05-15 14:30 1x20 Man / Eraser - season one finale

-- New episodes of *Rusty Rivets:

- 2026-05-05 02:40 1x15 Rusty Learns to Skate / Rusty's Rustic Adventure

- 2026-05-12 02:40 1x16 Rusty's Mechanical Animal / Rusty's Spaceship

- 2026-05-19 02:40 1x17 Rusty and the Bit Police / Rusty's Jam at the Dam

- 2026-05-26 02:40 1x18 Rusty's Botafort / Rusty's Bull Dozer

-- New episodes of *Shimmer and Shine:

- 2026-05-05 02:20 4x17 Sneaky Squeaky Chicken / Adara's Bracelets

- 2026-05-12 02:20 4x18 Nazboo Come Home / Surfing the Skies

- 2026-05-19 02:20 4x19 Journey to Zahramay Oceana

- 2026-05-26 02:20 4x20 The Sea Enchantress / The Dance of the Jellyfish

-- New episodes of *Top Wing:

- 2026-05-02 02:20 1x24 A Turtely Awesome Adventure / Brody Goes Home

- 2026-05-02 02:40 1x25 Birthday Bandits! / The Mystery of the Haunted Cave

--New episodes of *Winx Club (The Original Series):

- 2026-05-06 02:40 6x14 Mythix

- 2026-05-13 02:40 6x15 Mystery of Calavera

- 2026-05-20 02:40 6x16 Zombie Invasion

- 2026-05-27 02:40 6x17 The Curse of Fearwood

Nickelodeon and NickToons Global is available in Hungary, Romania, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Poland, France, Germany, Africa, Netherlands, Belgium, Russia, Adria countries (Croatia, Serbia and Slovenia), Turkey, Arabia, France (as Nickelodeon Toon), across Asia.

CBS Boss Alec Botnick Has Been Named President Of Nickelodeon Animation Studios

A longtime CBS exec, Botnick will lead the studio into its next chapter while continuing to serve in his current role as Executive Vice President (EVP) of CBS Studios Comedy Development, Head of Animation and Alternative.

Additionally, after BET Studios in December became a label of CBS Studios, the same is now being done with Nickelodeon Animation Studios, which also will function as a label within the David Stapf-run TV studio going forward.

With that, all production units in Cheeks’ expanded portfolio after the Skydance merger are now being consolidated into one, CBS Studios.

As the head of Nickelodeon Animation Studios, Botnick will help the studio reinvent its approach to reaching preschoolers and evolve into a multi-platform brand. He’ll also take charge of Nickelodeon’s unscripted arm, which includes the Kids’ Choice Awards. Of course, he will also guide the development of new TV series while overseeing Nickelodeon’s most important franchises like SpongeBob SquarePants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and PAW Patrol.

A former WME agent, Botnick joined CBS Studios in 2015 as Vice President (VP), Comedy Development and was upped to executive vp in 2021. 

While at CBS, Botnick has helped develop scripted series including for animated series Star Trek: Lower Decks, Everybody Still Hates Chris and Digman!, along with live-action comedies Ghosts, The Neighborhood, and the upcoming vampire comedy Eternally Yours, as well as Paramount+’s Australian comedy Colin From Accounts. He also developed Dead to Me, and American Vandal at Netflix. He will continue to develop scripted comedies and alternative titles for CBS Studios while maintaining oversight of animated development across the CBS, Comedy Central and MTV brands.

In more executive news, Ashley Kaplan, who previously served as Nickelodeon’s EVP of Unscripted and Digital Franchise Studios, will shift into a consulting role on Monday, April 13, supporting the TV Media division on special projects through the end of the year.

Kaplan had been co-running the animated studio with Botnick for the past four months. Back in November, three months after former CBS President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Cheeks added oversight of Paramount cable brands such as MTV, Comedy Central, Nickelodeon and BET in his new role as Paramount’s Chair of TV Media, he unveiled leadership for most divisions.

Kaplan and Botnick were tapped at the time to oversee Nickelodeon Animation Studios. Over her seven-year tenure at Nickelodeon, Kaplan has shepherded the company’s large YouTube output in form of short-form content, including Kid Cowboy.

Jules Borkent, EVP of Global Commercial Partnerships and Operations, will continue to oversee the business and strategy of Nickelodeon Kids & Family.

Read Cheeks' memo in its entirety below:

Team,  

I’m excited to announce that Alec Botnick has been appointed President of Nickelodeon Animation Studios. Alec will lead Nickelodeon Animation Studios into its next chapter, while also continuing his current role as EVP of CBS Studios comedy development, alternative & animation. Similar to BET Studios, Nickelodeon Animation Studios will now operate as its own label for television within CBS Studios.

For Nickelodeon, Alec will oversee the animation studio and its evolution across digital, TV and streaming as we reimagine how we meet today’s kids and families. Alec’s leadership will be essential in shaping our next phase as Nickelodeon reinvents how we reach preschoolers, starting where discovery happens first and evolving into a true multi-platform brand. He also will lead Nickelodeon’s unscripted programming for television, including the Kids’ Choice Awards, while also guiding the development of new series and overseeing our long-running hits, ensuring Nickelodeon remains home to the world’s most iconic kids’ franchises like SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS, TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES, PAW PATROL and more.  

Alec will continue to develop scripted comedies and alternative projects for CBS Studios, as well as maintain oversight of animated development across the CBS, Comedy Central and MTV brands for owned and third-party platforms. Series and projects Alec has helped develop include GHOSTS and ETERNALLY YOURS for CBS, the critically acclaimed Australian comedy COLIN FROM ACCOUNTS for Paramount+ and the animated series “Odd Jobs” for Prime Video.  

I also want to share that Ashley Kaplan will transition to a consulting role beginning Monday. In this capacity, she will support the TV Media division on special projects through the end of the year. We are grateful to Ashley for her years of leadership and appreciate her continued partnership.  

Jules Borkent, executive vice president of global commercial partnerships and operations, will continue to oversee Nickelodeon Kids & Family’s business and strategy, working in partnership with Alec and other key stakeholders to maximize the Nick brand.  

Please join me in congratulating Alec on this well-deserved role. I’m excited for what’s ahead as we continue building the next chapter of Nickelodeon.  

All the best,  

George

Development Alert: Electric Bloom Cancelled On Disney Channel After One Season

Electric Bloom is an American musical comedy television series created by Alex Fox, Eric Friedman, and Rachel Lewis that premiered on July 10, 2025 on Disney Channel. The series stars Lumi Pollack, Carmen Sanchez, Ruby Marino, and Nathaniel Buescher.

Synopsis for Electric Bloom

It follows a famous pop music group called "Electric Bloom" consists of Posey Parker, Jade Castillo, and Tulip Aoki where they named their group over the fact that they have flower-based names. Electric Bloom reflects on their story on how they became the biggest band in the world on their "Ask Us Anything" livestream, starting from the day they met in 9th grade at Edison County High School and became a school band.

According to Production Weekly, Disney Channel had renewed Vampirina: Teenage Vampire and Wizards Beyond Waverly Place for further seasons. In these strings of shows, Electric Bloom was apparently left out leading to speculation it got the axe.

In recent years, Disney Channel hasn't been upfront about the status of most of their shows as the focus has shifted to streaming. The company now relies on Disney+ to determine whether any of these shows sink or swim.

Historically, Disney had often adhered to a "65-episode rule," where many shows were ended regardless of popularity to keep the brand fresh and manage costs. Today, this has evolved into a "soft cancellation" strategy where underperforming shows are simply left without updates.

With the cancellation of Electric Bloom and the final season renewal of Wizards Beyond Waverly Place. This would leave Vampirina: Teenage Vampire and the upcoming series Coven Academy as the only live-action to broadcast on Disney Channel.

Channel Premiere: Play Room Unveils Fast & Furious: Spy Racers From DreamWorks Animation

Play Room, a South African based children's channel operated by Ngwato Nkosi Group that offers content in English and Zulu will rollout its first new series, Fast & Furious: Spy Racers. It will broadcast on the channel daily at 17:30 from 1st April.

Synopsis for Fast & Furious: Spy Racers 

Teenager Tony Toretto follows in the footsteps of his cousin Dom when he and his friends are recruited by a government agency to infiltrate an elite racing league serving as a front for a nefarious crime organization called SH1FT3R bent on world domination.

The series is executive produced by Vin Diesel, Neal H. Moritz, Chris Morgan, Tim Hedrick (Voltron Legendary Defender) and Bret Haaland (All Hail King Julien). Diesel, Moritz and Morgan also served as producers on the live-action Fast & Furious film franchise.

The cast features Tyler Posey (Teen Wolf) as Dom’s younger cousin turned spy racer Tony Toretto; Camille Ramsey as Layla Gray, a notable underground racer who works for SH1FT3R and Luke Youngblood (Harry Potter) as Frostee Benson, a 13-year old tech genius.

Prior to its broadcast on Play Room, Fast & Furious: Spy Racers was also broadcast on eToonz (South Africa), Showmax (Africa) and Netflix (international).

Fast & Furious: Spy Racers has yet to be made available on DreamWorks Channel as most of its later shows are available on these outlets. With the only exception being Play Room as this is their first with others like Rio and Shrek being films.

Could Paramount Look To Merge Cartoonito With Nick Jr.?

Paramount is looking to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery after Netflix walked out of the bidding war. As preschool brands like Cartoonito and Nick Jr. likely to be owned by the same company, with this merger set to close by the end of 2026.

According to Paramount, they intend to keep most of the company intact but with the amount of debt they'd be digesting it's hard to believe they'll retain both Cartoonito and Nick Jr. if this deal closes.

Cartoonito is home to shows like Bugs Bunny Builders, Batwheels and Grizzy And The Lemmings. While Nick Jr. offers Paw Patrol, Dora The Explorer and The Tiny Chef Show.

Even if Paramount plans to keep Nickelodeon and Nick Jr. while inheriting Cartoon Network and Cartoonito. There's definitely going to be some restructuring content wise, likely for its international variants of Cartoonito.

Cartoonito had been struggling to find it's footing in the US despite having hits shows like Batwheels. All the while Warner Bros. Discovery continued expanding its preschool slate the development of Hey BMO and Foster's Funtime.

Of course the problem part here is that none of these shows have a platform and with this buyout by Paramount. This offering will most definitely get picked up by Nick Jr.

Nick Jr. has global appeal and it's history dates to the 80s as opposed to Cartoonito which dates to the mid 2000s in the UK/Europe so it's safe to bet they will handle this department.

Cartoonito will likely lean more toward shows like Mr. Bean and Grizzy And The Lemmings perhaps become a complementary/extension to Nick Jr. Think of how Candle Media structured it's Moonbug and Blippi And Friends channels internationally.

Nick Jr. could offer a programming block on Cartoonito perhaps for older shows like Nella The Princess Knight, Bubble Guppies and Rusty Rivets.

Disney Channel Celebrates 20th Anniversary in Africa

• Channel launched on 25 September 2006

• Brand-New Programming from Animation to Live-Action

• Viewers invited to celebrate with iconic stories, characters, surprises and more

 

On 25 September 2006, Disney Channel debuted on DStv (Channel 303) for the first time and welcomed viewers to a world of humour, music, friendship and feel-good fun, through iconic live action and animation series. Since then, the channel has continued to introduce unforgettable stories and characters and, in 2026, Disney Channel will be celebrating with fans and viewers across Africa. 

 

In the run up to the 20th anniversary, expect the very latest and greatest programming, on-screen superstars and fun, as well as extra surprise reveals, events, competitions and activations throughout the year, inspired by everything the channel has become synonymous with - music, fashion, friendship and adventure. Keep your eyes glued to the channel as well as on social media platforms for more details.  

 

Link to launch promo video 

 

Kicking off the celebrations this March, a special Throwback programming block will be introduced to the channel, bringing special themed episodes from iconic series. For the first time, fans will have a hand in curating the block by voting on social media for what they want to see - from Hannah Montana to Raven’s Home, Liv & Maddie, Bunk’d and more. With voting now open, the power lies in the hands of the fans.  

 

There is also a slate of brand-new content coming to the channel later in the year. These include the animated original Dragon Striker, set at an elite academy where sports and magic combine, as farm boy Key discovers his ultrapowerful natural talent and learns he may be destined to become the legendary Dragon Striker. Also on the animation front, the brand-new ZOMBIES: The Re-Animated Series follows the daily lives of Zed, Addison, and the entire Seabrook crew as A-spen’s alien time-warp technology gives them a chance to relive senior year with all their friends. Celebrating the high-energy music from the iconic Descendants and ZOMBIES franchises, the Descendants/ZOMBIES Worlds Collide Tour thrilled sold-out crowds in over 40 arenas across North America last summer - a concert special will be coming exclusively to Disney Channel.  

 

The channel will also continue its Movie Mayhem slot every Friday at 17:00 where fans can catch all their favourite Disney and Pixar movies - from Toy Story to Wreck it Ralph - as well as several Disney Channel Original Movies (DCOMs), including The Suite Life Movie and Phineas and Ferb The Movie: Candace Against the Universe. Fans of the wildly popular Descendants franchise will also be pleased to know the DCOM returns later this year, welcoming new Descendants from Alice in Wonderland and more! 

 

For two decades, Disney Channel has offered up some of the best in entertainment for kids as we’ve danced through the halls of East High with High School Musical, navigated the supernatural secrets of Wizards of Waverly Place, and grown up alongside legends like Miley Cyrus in Hannah Montana and Zendaya in K.C. Undercover.  

 

The channel also found local resonance with shows like the SAFTA award-winning series Disney’s Cookabout - a cooking adventure series that saw local kids learning about where their food comes from. The animated series Kiff - which premiered in 2023 was created by South Africans Nic Smal and Lucy Heavens. The buddy-comedy is currently in its second season and has been renewed for a third. 

Comedy Central And Adult Swim Could Benefit From The Warner Bros. Discovery And Paramount Merger

Paramount is in process of trying to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery home to brands like CNN, Cartoon Network and OWN. This merger would mean that Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon, CBS News and CNN, and BET and OWN will operate under one roof.

The biggest gainer within this M&A would be Comedy Central and Adult Swim.

Comedy Central's content slate has been reliant on reruns of sitcoms like Becker, Hot In Cleveland, The Nanny and Rules Of Engagement. The only thing basically carrying the channel would be South Park and The Daily Show.

Adult Swim has been regarded as destination hub for adult animation with shows like Rick And Morty, Robot Chicken, Primal and Final Space. Unlike Comedy Central, it lacks in scale with it's linear operations residing mainly in Canada.

With this merger, Comedy Central stands to benefit with an increased slate of content. The channel is no stranger to animation with Beavis And Butthead and it's spinoff Daria as well as Drawn Together, The Ren And Stumpy Show and Ugly Americans.

Canada is the only known market to offer a 24 hour channel for Adult Swim maybe this merger will even lead more feeds for the brand perhaps under Comedy Central.