Ellipse Animation and Belvision announce their partnership with Nickelodeon, which will broadcast worldwide the 3D animated series The Marsupilamis (52×11’), excluding the USA and China. Mediatoon Distribution and Mediatoon Licensing, also part of the family-owned powerhouse, handle international sales and consumer products, introducing The Marsupilamis respectively to MIPCOM and BLE.
Media-Participations‘ animation production companies Ellipse Animation (The Smurfs, The Garfield Show) and Belvision (Asterix: The Mansions of the Gods, Zombillenium) are coproducing the long-awaited series. Mediatoon Distribution and Mediatoon Licensing, also part of the family-owned powerhouse, handle international sales and consumer products, introducing The Marsupilamis respectively to MIPCOM and BLE.
Currently in production and slated for delivery in Fall 2025, The Marsupilamis has also been commissioned by other major broadcasters including M6/Gulli in France, RTBF and VRT in Belgium, RTS in Switzerland, and Radio Canada.
Created over 70 years ago by the renowned Belgian author André Franquin, the Marsupilami has become one of the most iconic characters in comic book history, having been adapted numerous times for television, cinema and videogames. With its 8-meter-long tail, unmissable spotted fur, and a distinctive language based on «Houba», this unique creature has captured the imagination of kids and families across generations.
In the new animated series, the legendary Marsupilamis swap the wild Palombian jungle for an even wilder place: the city. There, twins Jade and Mica find their world turned upside down when their explorer parents entrust them with three mysterious Marsupilami eggs. Once they hatch, the siblings must get creative to keep their new friends hidden – after all, no one knows these energetic creatures exist, and predators could be lurking around every corner.
The 52-episode series, with each episode running 11 minutes, targets children aged 5+. It is directed by the talented Célestine Jacquel-Plays (Grizzy and the Lemmings), with head writing by Andrew Barnett Jones and Ciaran Murtagh (The Amazing World of Gumball), and artistic direction by Guilhem Deckers (Minions 2). Through a comprehensive 3D production pipeline, the creative team has expanded visual and narrative horizons, blending situational comedy and action-packed scenes.
Caroline Duvochel, Head of Audiovisual & Innovation at Média-Participations and Managing Director of Ellipse Animation says: ‘We are thrilled to finally present The Marsupilamis series, with our best talents bringing a new take on the most iconic IP of our portfolio. An ambitious and unique branding strategy unites all entities within the Média-Participations group, placing The Marsupilamis at the forefront of our creative efforts. Collaborating with the top-tier Paramount team is a true delight, enhancing the global reach and impact of our legendary character’.Layla Lewis, Senior Vice President, Global Acquisitions and Content Partnerships, Nickelodeon, adds: ‘We are delighted to be partnering with Ellipse and Belvision to introduce The Marsupilamis to our Nickelodeon audiences. This fresh take on a beloved character brings a vibrant mix of humor, heart, and adventure that makes it an excellent addition to our international slate’.
