Cartoon Network Unveils New Lineup

NEW YORK: At its annual Upfront presentation, Cartoon Network announced a number of firsts for the channel, including its foray into the broadcast awards arena with Cartoon Network’s Hall of Game.

Premiering in early 2011, Cartoon Network’s Hall of Game will allow be a multiplatform experience that allows viewers to decide what’s hot in the world of sports. The event will feature professional and amateur athletes, as well as entertainment. The event will be produced by IMG Media and the Sports Illustrated Group will serve as the official promotion partner and will also introduce the SI Kids‘ Sports Kid of the Year Award.

The network also unveiled 25 new series, movies and specials, alongside 13 returning shows. Two new live-action series, Unnatural History and Tower Prep, were presented, as well as the CGI movie event Firebreather. New series to be presented as part of a new quarter-hour comedy block include MAD, Regular Show, Robotomy and Secret Mountain Fort Awesome. Cartoon Network further announced that later this year an all-new re-imaged version of Warner Bros. animated classic shorts Looney Tunes will debut.

“Last spring we talked about how ‘our voice was changing’ and announced an ambitious slate of diverse and compelling content,” said Stuart Snyder, the president and COO of Turner Broadcasting’s Animation, Young Adults and Kids Media division. “This year we’re delivering and adding great brands and beloved franchises that represent the breadth and scope of Cartoon Network’s ongoing evolution.”

“Today we announced some bold new content as we continue to provide advertisers with an extensive array of high-profile opportunities,” added John O’Hara, the executive VP and general manager for Cartoon Network ad sales and marketing. “We’ll continue to develop innovative ideas for our partners that will extend the reach of their message across our linear and digital platforms and will deliver measurable returns for their investment.”

“We’re expanding beyond the boundaries of traditional kids’ content,” continued Rob Sorcher, the chief content officer for Cartoon Network. “This new programming lineup brings event-quality entertainment to our prime time.”