China’s Alibaba Boards Stan Lee’s Superhero Kindergarten

Genius Brands International has entered into a strategic co-production partnership with Youku to co-produce Stan Lee’s Superhero Kindergarten, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Genius Brands and Youku will co-produce 52 11-minute episodes, which will be available to Chinese audiences on Youku. Genius Brands is also currently in active discussions with potential U.S. partners.

Created by Stan Lee as one of his final projects, Stan Lee’s Superhero Kindergarten is also co-produced by Lee’s POW! Entertainment and Schwarzenegger’s Oak Productions. Schwarzenegger, who also serves as executive producer, lends his voice as the lead character in the series.

“Youku is one of the most innovative media platforms in the world with an unparalleled ability to integrate entertainment and commerce,” commented Andy Heyward, chairman and CEO of Genius Brands. “We look forward to collaborating with Youku to create a high-quality program in the preschool space that will resonate with a global audience.”

Aaron Liao, general manager of Youku Kids, added, “With Stan Lee’s creativity, Arnold Schwarzenegger’s star power, and Genius Brands’ expertise in children’s entertainment, Superhero Kindergarten has all the elements to become a worldwide phenomenon. With Youku’s platform and technology, we are excited to help the program reach hundreds of millions of families in China and partner with Genius Brands to create this inspiring story for children around the world.”