New Nickelodeon Global Series

NEW YORK/MIAMI: Nickelodeon has greenlit its first-ever global series to be produced in the new Viacom International Studios in Miami.

I Am Frankie, originally produced as Yo Soy Franky by Nickelodeon Latin America in Colombia, was created by renowned Argentine writer Marcela Citterio. The English-language version is now being adapted for global audiences by Catharina Ledeboer, who has written multiple Nickelodeon hits, including Every Witch Way and Talia in the Kitchen.

The series is already in development, with production to begin in the second half of 2016. Nickelodeon has ordered 20 half-hour episodes, which will be distributed to Nickelodeon’s global audiences spanning 160 countries and territories via the brand’s more than 80 channels and branded blocks.

Cyma Zarghami, the president of Viacom’s Kids and Family Group, said, “Miami has been a content hub for Nickelodeon for some time, creating global hits such as Every Witch Way, among others. Our talented team in Miami is truly expert at the daily serialized format—and continues to innovate their approach to both content and platforms. I Am Frankie is a fresh and different format and has incredibly talented team behind it.”

Pierluigi Gazzolo, the president of Viacom International Media Networks for the Americas, added, “Viacom’s commitment to top quality productions is greater than ever before—as audiences continue to demand more and more content. I am delighted that this innovative new show is among the first to be produced in this new turnkey facility.”