Classic Media to Relaunch Voltron

NEW YORK: Classic Media has taken on the international distribution and worldwide merchandising and licensing rights to Voltron, which first launched on U.S. television in 1984 and is being resurrected for contemporary audiences via a new animated series for Nicktoons in 2011.

World Events Productions (WEP), which owns Voltron, and Classic Media are producing the new series, Voltron Force—the first original television content in the franchise in 10 years—along with Kickstart Productions. Voltron Force will follow a group of new recruits on their once-in-a-lifetime chance to battle alongside the original group of heroes. The 26×30-minute show will consist of 2D and CGI animation. Mattel is developing a new line of Voltron toys.

“I am thrilled to partner with Classic Media as we introduce Voltron to a new generation of fans,” said Ted Koplar, president of WEP. “Classic Media’s exceptional brand management capability will play an integral role in the highly-anticipated relaunch of this classic property. Voltron’s legacy of innovative and iconic toys is in great hands with Mattel, whose vision promises to re-imagine and re-invigorate Voltron toys like never before.”

“We are delighted to be a strategic partner of WEP’s on the revival of such an iconic brand as Voltron and greatly look forward to working with Kickstart Productions in bringing this new animation series to all of our key international partners across broadcast and home entertainment,” added Chloe van den Berg, executive VP of international at Classic Media.

Nicole Blake, executive VP of global marketing and consumer products at Classic Media, added: “With a renewed emphasis on building a global consumer products program and its intrinsic transformation play pattern, anchored by Mattel as master toy partner, Voltron is poised to regain its position as a top kids property.”