More Broadcast Deals for All-New Bob the Builder Series

NUREMBERG: Mattel and HIT Entertainment’s all-new Bob the Builder series has been picked up by channels in Europe, Israel and South Africa.

In Europe, the new CG-animated series will air on France 5, Z@pplin in the Netherlands, VRT in Belgium, Rai YoYo in Italy, MiniMini in Poland, Turner in the U.K. and RTE in Ireland. Hop! in Israel and E-TV in South Africa have also acquired the children’s series. The reboot has already aired on Channel 5’s Milkshake! in the U.K.

These new deals come as Mattel has confirmed future co-development and co-production of Bob the Builder through a partnership with DHX Media, signed late last year. The agreement will see new episodic, short-form and long-form Bob the Builder programming produced for TV and digital platforms. The partnership will also see DHX handle all future global distribution for the series. The new version of the classic show continues to teach kids about teamwork and positivity.

Claire Heinrich, the head of youth programs acquisitions for France Télévisions, commented: “We are thrilled to welcome the all-new Bob the Builder to France 5’s programming schedule. Bob the Builder is a well-known character in France and we are sure everyone will love his new look and series. France 5 is known for featuring educational programming for children, and Bob is great for teaching little ones teamwork through a range of different scenarios and fun ventures.”

Catherine Balsam-Schwaber, the chief content officer at Mattel, added: “We are delighted to be partnering with world-class broadcasters to bring the new Bob the Builder series into homes across Europe; this is a critical milestone that proves the strong production values of the show and the popularity of the brand.”