Thunderbirds Are Go Arrives on China’s CCTV

CANNES: ITV Studios Global Entertainment (ITVS GE) has sold the first season of the kids’ animated series Thunderbirds Are Go to CCTV in China, marking the first time the property will air in the country.

The agreement includes exclusive terrestrial rights in China and will see the 26-episode series air on children’s channel CCTV-14. Produced by ITV Studios and Pukeko Pictures in association with Weta Workshop, Thunderbirds Are Go is a reimagining of the classic children’s series that uses a mix of CGI animation and live-action miniatures.

Zhuang Dianjun, the head of CCTV kids, said, “We are delighted to be the exclusive partner in China for this hit reinvention of a much-loved, classic series. It is a great addition to our portfolio and I’m sure will have huge appeal to our young viewers.”

Steve Green, the executive VP of kids’ content and distribution at ITVS GE, commented, “Thunderbirds Are Go is proving to be a huge hit with children and families all over the world. The series has already sold to more than 40 countries underlining the global appeal of timeless stories of bravery, friendship and rescue. Its state-of-the-art, modern technology, brings it bang up to date, while retaining its core charm and values. I am delighted to add such an important market as China to our burgeoning list of countries whose children can now enjoy this fantastic series.”