Serious Kids has acquired the worldwide distribution rights (excluding U.K.) to Happy Town, a 50 x 7’, 2D-animated preschool series commissioned by Sky Kids (U.K.) from Happy Town Productions. The London based distributor will be launching the series at MIPjunior prior to transmission on Sky Kids in 2025.
“We are absolutely thrilled to launch this wonderful series at MIPCOM and thanks to Sky and Happy Town Productions for entrusting us with this special IP which I am sure will have a big impact on the broadcast landscape,” said Genevieve Dexter, Founder of Serious Kids.
“Full of positivity and encouraging creative thinking, Happy Town is a burst of color and joy which is completely encapsulated in the brilliant Mel B’s warm and engaging narration,” commented Sky Kids Director Lucy Murphy, who commissioned the show.
Happy Town was created by former Cartoon Network executive James Fox (creator and producer of BAFTA-nominated live-action/animation quiz-show-sitcom, Skatoony). Starring Spice Girl Mel B (in her first kids show) and newcomer Zahra Bew, the series will complete production in January 2025. Animation services are provided by Salford, U.K.-based Flix Animation.
Synopsis: When everyone in Happy Town is happy, the Happy Town sign shines bright; however, if just one person is sad, the sign blinks out! This is where Pep, the helpful hedgehog and his best friend Tabitha spring into action. Zipping around town on Pep’s skateboard, they discover unhappy towners, all of whom hold the key to helping each other and restoring happiness to Happy Town.
“Happy Town is a joyful, bright and colorful show about community, kindness and problem-solving,” said Fox, who serves as creator and director on the show. “Everyone on the team has
poured their heart and soul into this project, and we really hope that our problem-solving hero, Pep, and the cast of lovable characters will have a positive and long-lasting effect on young audiences.”
Series producer Dominic Buttimore added, “Great concept and beautiful design — we are looking forward to engaging with our audience in a fun, clever and positive way.”