Nick Jr. to Air Pocoyo

CANNES: The U.S. broadcast syndication rights for the animated preschool series Pocoyo were picked up by Nick Jr. in a deal brokered by ITV Studios Global Entertainment and Zinkia.

Pocoyo will make its English-language debut this spring on Nick Jr. in the U.S. The show is broadcast in more than 100 territories worldwide.

Maria Doolan, the managing director of brand and business development at Zinkia, said, “We’re really excited that American kids, parents and caregivers will get to know Pocoyo and we’re confident that they’ll fall in love with him, just as millions around the globe have already. Nick Jr. is a great home for this prestige series.”

Marina Lum-Kang, the senior VP of brand extensions and integrated marketing at ITV Studios Global Entertainment, added, “ITV Studios is thrilled that Pocoyo is to air on Nick Jr. This is a quality global brand which has a proven track record in the competitive preschool space.”

Tor Sirset, the VP of marketing for the girls and preschool business unit at Bandai America, noted, “We look forward to the multi-award winning preschool series making its debut on Nick Jr. and we look forward to launching an extensive new line of consumer products inspired by the show later in 2010. Kids connect with this property because it’s packed with strong visuals, color and humor.”