WildBrain CPLG Pacts with HarperCollins Productions

WildBrain CPLG has signed a deal for worldwide licensing and merchandising rights for a trio of HarperCollins Productions’ properties: Carmen Sandiego, The Oregon Trail, and Pretzel and the Puppies.

WildBrain CPLG’s L&M rights for Carmen Sandiego include the animated action-adventure series, which is produced by HarperCollins Productions and WildBrain for Netflix and based on the media franchise of the same name. The agency will also represent L&M rights for the Carmen Sandiego Netflix movie, which is currently in development.

The Oregon Trail is a video game franchise from the 1980s and ’90s that has also been extended into books and licensing with major media in development but not yet announced.

Pretzel and the Puppies is a children’s book by Margret and H.A. Rey, the authors of Curious George, originally published in 1946 and recently rereleased. It is now an Apple TV+ animated series.

WildBrain CPLG will build strategic licensing programs for each of the properties across multiple new categories, including apparel, footwear, fashion accessories, electronics, toys and games, health and beauty, back-to-school and homewares. The partnership also includes promotions and location-based entertainment rights.

Jasen Wright, VP for North America at WildBrain CPLG, said: “As our North America office continues to expand its entertainment portfolio, it’s fantastic to welcome a company of HarperCollins Productions’ caliber into our roster, a group which is home to some incredibly popular franchises that we know have significant consumer products potential. What’s more, the Carmen Sandiego brand is a perfect example of how WildBrain is positioned to offer 360-degree strategies for IP owners who are looking for integrated content, distribution and licensing all under one roof.”

Caroline Fraser, head of HarperCollins Productions, added: “HarperCollins publishes some of the best children’s titles in the world. When we adapt these titles to screen, kids, families and authors enjoy wider access to our beloved characters and stories. We are excited to work with WildBrain CPLG to bring our properties to an even wider audience through licensing and merchandising.”