The Transformers saga has captivated kids for more than 20 years. Coming on the heels of the highly anticipated live-action theatrical film being released July 3rd, by DreamWorks Pictures and Paramount Pictures, Cartoon Network and Hasbro, Inc. are announcing today that the next generation of the epic animated series is being jointly developed by the two entities for a 2008 debut on the network in the U.S. The eye-popping 2-D animated series is a new twist on the original high-octane, animated action-adventure series with new characters alongside legends such as Optimus Prime and Megatron. Each episode will present a standalone storyline featuring everyday heroes who do good deeds that triumph over evil. âTransformers Animatedâ series will be co-produced by Cartoon Network Studios.
Twenty-six, half-hour episodes will be produced as well as a 90-minute special of âTransformers Animatedâ which is scheduled for release in early 2008 on Cartoon Network in the U.S. Matt Youngberg (âTeen Titans,â âThe Batmanâ) is the supervising director, Derrick Wyatt (âTeen Titansâ) will provide the character designs and Sam Register (âBen 10,â âTeen Titansâ) will serve as executive producer of the series. Marty Isenberg (âDanny Phantom,â âX-Men,â âTeenage Mutant Ninja Turtlesâ) acts as head writer.
âWe are thrilled to be working with the highly creative team at Cartoon Network on bringing the next chapter in the Transformers saga to kids and fans around the world,â said Brian Goldner, Hasbroâs Chief Operating Officer. âThe animation style that Cartoon Network has developed really brings the lore and characters of the Transformers franchise alive in a way that has never been seen through animation.â
âTransformers is a tried and true draw for our core audience,â said Bob Higgins, senior vice president programming and development, Cartoon Network. âKids love the surprise of âMore Than Meets the Eye,â combined with dynamic, clearly defined characters and epic storylines. We are thrilled to be working with Hasbro to help re-imagine this amazing franchise for a new generation of fans.â
Set on Earth in the near future in Detroit, the alien Transformers are thrust into a world populated by humans and automatons. As visitors to Earth, the TransformersâOptimus Prime, Bumblebee, Prowl, Bulkhead and Ratchetâwork in the human world, interacting with the ânativesâ in exciting and humorous ways. âTransformers Animatedâ has been created to showcase the heroic Autobots working together to battle the evil Decepticons and save Earth with kid-relatable plot lines filled with humor, distinctive character personalities, and dynamic action.
Hasbro and HPG, its licensing division, will expand the action-packed âTransformers Animatedâ series through toys, games, licensed merchandise and promotions around the world.
Source: Cartoon Network