Cartoon Version of The Blues Brothers in Development

LOS ANGELES: Bento Box Entertainment, which has produced hits such as FOX’s Bob’s Burgers, is set to develop a prime-time animated version of The Blues Brothers.

The project comes from co-creators and executive producers Dan Aykroyd, Judy Belushi and Saturday Night Live writer Anne Beatts. Bento Box plans to shop the series to TV platforms starting in May. The show will chronicle the music, mayhem and comedy adventures of Jake and Elwood Blues, along with the characters within their master blues band.

Additionally, each episode will feature a score and soundtrack curated with the soul, blues and R&B classics and hits performed by the original Blues Brothers, as well as new performances recorded specifically for the show.

After debuting as the musical guests in a 1978 Saturday Night Live episode hosted by Steve Martin, Martin asked Aykroyd and John Belushi to serve as the opening act at his upcoming show at the Universal Amphitheater as the Blues Brothers. The duo would eventually star in their own 1980 movie.

“It is such a privilege for us to be able to produce the work of the very same people who played such an instrumental role in creating one of the most iconic, multifaceted comedy and music brands of all time,” said Scott Greenberg, executive producer for Bento Box. “Now we all have the rare opportunity to translate the timeless comic genius of Dan and John from live action to animation, while offering an entirely new generation of Blues Brothers fans the chance to appreciate them.”

Aykroyd commented: “It’s so great to accelerate Jake and Elwood at digital speed into the 21st century via the outstanding creative group at Bento Box. The show will be the Blues Brothers living in America and utilizing all new technology to make and promote their own records, seek out and record new artists and avoid law enforcement—and all while fighting for truth, justice and a better breakfast sandwich.”