TF1 Signs On for Chorion's Gaspard & Lisa

LONDON/NEW YORK, January
8: Chorion has signed a broadcast and licensing deal for its brand-new property
Gaspard & Lisa with
France's TF1, which recently took on Olivia as well.

TF1 is planning a
licensing-and-merchandising campaign around the new series that includes a gift
range, apparel, toys and games. The products will follow alongside publishing
and will launch just after the show's TV debut in 2010. In Japan, Gaspard
& Lisa has already found
success with its licensing at retail through a variety of products targeted at
young women and families.

The 52×11-minute animated
series is based on the book series written and illustrated by Anne Gutman and
George Hallensleben. Chorion has secured the television and merchandising
rights to Gaspard & Lisa
from Hachette Livre, the original publisher and worldwide publishing owner of
the property. To date, more than 25 books have been translated in more than 15
languages worldwide.

Geraint Marsh, the senior
VP of TV sales for Chorion, said: "Gaspard & Lisa is an exciting property and we are delighted to
have signed a further multi-rights deal with TF1. The charming books are
already an established brand worldwide and we are thrilled to be using our expertise
in book-to-screen adaptation to bring the show to new audiences
worldwide."

Dominique Poussier, the
head of children's programming at TF1, commented: "Following our deal with
Chorion earlier this year for Olivia, we are excited to further strengthen our relationship by acquiring Gaspard
& Lisa. The property had an
established heritage in France and we are looking forward to bringing the show
to children through this new television series."

Hubert Taieb, the deputy
general manager of TF1 Enterprises who heads up TF1 Licenses, said: "The Gaspard
& Lisa books are much-loved
and we know we will translate them well into a range of merchandising and
branded items. We have an exciting licensing program planned for 2010."

—By Kristin
Brzoznowski