The network for kids and families’ four new series are based on iconic names and strong, beloved properties that will join eight returning popular original series on The Hub TV Network’s 2012-2013 programming lineup. Margaret Loesch, The Hub CEO, said at the network’s 3/1 upfront that the new series continue the network’s strategy of building a schedule with programs based on well-known brands. The Hub launched October 10, 2010, replacing the former Discovery Kids Network.
Among the new original series coming to The Hub are the animated series “Care Bears: Welcome to Care-a-Lot,” “Littlest Pet Shop,” “Kaijudo: Rise of the Duel Masters” and the new live-action series “Spooksville” based on the popular tween book series from Christopher Pike.
The Hub’s upfront events are being held inNew York(March 1),Chicago(March 8) andLos Angeles(March 15).
“With the momentum of our successful first year, we’re building a slate of programs for the 2012-’13 season that continues our strategy of presenting series based on well-known names and beloved properties in the kids and family entertainment space,” said Loesch. “One of our advantages has always been the built-in strength and recognition of our programming. The success of that is evident in our large number of returning original series and in the exciting new original series. We’re confident that this lineup will further define us as the entertainment destination for kids and their families.”
The first of the new series to appear will be “Kaijudo: Rise of the Duel Masters” an all-new, action-packed animated series from Hasbro Studios premiering this summer. The series features the voices of actors Scott Wolf (“Party of Five”), Freddy Rodriguez (“Ugly Betty”), John DiMaggio (“Futurama” and “Pound Puppies”) and Phil LaMarr (“Mad TV”). “Kaijudo: Rise of the Duel Masters” is an animated action-fantasy series that follows the adventures of a young hero, Ray, who possesses the rare ability to befriend and duel alongside fantastical creatures from a parallel dimension. The series is based on a re-imagination of the wildly successful Duel Masters property inJapanby Wizards of the Coast (magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons) and Hasbro, Inc.
“Care Bears: Welcome to Care-a-Lot” (Hub Original Series) is et to debut this summer to reconnect with kids and families. Care-a-Lot is set in a whimsical world where the Care Bears help children navigate their feelings through music, love, belly-badge powers and great big Care Bear hugs. Produced by American Greetings Properties, “Care Bears: Welcome to Care-a-Lot” will premiere on The Hub in summer.
“Littlest Pet Shop” (Hub Original Series) is an animated half-hour comedy series that centers on the life of fun-loving Blythe and the adventures of the pets that she cares for at the Littlest Pet Shop. Hasbro Studios will produce 26 all-new half-hour episodes of the series, which is expected to premiere in Q4.
“Spooksville” (Hub Original Series): Based on the acclaimed book series by author Christopher Pike, the new kid in town discovers that he holds the key to a battle between good and evil that has been taking place for centuries in a bizarre small town that plays host to a wide array of supernatural and unexplained occurrences; only to learn that his family is right in the center of the mystery. From Producer Jane Startz, the half-hour series is expected to premiere in Q4.
New acquisitions:
“The Facts of Life”: Distributed by Sony Pictures Television, the half-hour series is expected to premiere in Q2.
“Mork & Mindy”: Distributed by CBS Television Distribution, the half-hour series is expected to premiere in Q2.
“Sabrina The Teenage Witch”: Distributed by CBS Television Distribution, the half-hour series is expected to premiere in Q2.
Returning Hub Original Series/Specials with new episodes (in alphabetical order):
“The Aquabats! Super Show!” (Premiering March 3 on The Hub; produced by FremantleMedia Enterprises and The Magic Store)
“Dan Vs.” (Produced by Film Roman in association with The Hatchery, LLC)
“Family Game Night” (Produced by Hasbro Studios)
“My Little Pony Friendship is Magic” (Produced by Hasbro Studios)
“Pound Puppies” (Produced by Hasbro Studios)
“R.L. Stine’s The Haunting Hour: The Series” (Front Street Pictures in association with The Hatchery, LLC)
“Secret Millionaires Club” (A Hub Original Special produced by A Squared Entertainment)
“Transformers Prime” (Produced by Hasbro Studios)
“Transformers Rescue Bots” (Produced by Hasbro Studios)
