Someone is about to turn 10. That’s a big number for a network geared towards preschoolers. And to celebrate its first decade, Sprout has a few new shows.
Wax explained that one of the big changes to at the network was moving its corporate offices from the Comcast Center in Philadelphia to 30 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City. Wax explained the move was to not only piggy-back off of the technical and broadcast technology of parent company NBCUniversal, but to also gain access from top musical acts and celebrity guests for its live morning show. Wax touted guest visits as a result of the move as including OK Go, Boyz II Men and Parks & Recreation‘s Aubrey Plaza.
Wax said that Sprout’s programming is all about celebrating everyday moments that matter, and reaching Sprout is about reaching Moms, Dads and young children (target is age 6) — watching in conjunction.
As a result of the Sprout network turning 10 (“Double Digits!” cheered Wax), Sprout continues to solidify its push into original programming with several new series set to premiere in 2015 and early 2016.
On Feb. 14, the network’s first new show of the new year premieres, Ruff-Ruff, Tweet and Dave, an interactive game show for kids and families. In each of the series’ half-hour episodes, the three animated animal friends go on an adventure, during which they meet an obstacle. The solution to the problem will be either “Ruff-Ruff,” “Tweet” or “Dave,” and while children can call out answers as they watch, Wax also announced that the network will premiere a second screen app, so families can play the games in real time.
In June, the network is excited to premiere The Clangers, an original series based on a classic British children’s show from the 1960s. Sprout is working with the BBC to reimagine and reinvent the show and the series will use stop-motion animation. Wax brought out one of the animation models, of “Tiny Clanger,” and I must admit, the knitted character is adorable. The 26 half-hour episodes are about a family of knitted aliens and their world. Wax also announced that William Shatner will lend his voice to the series as its narrator. “He’s perfect for it,” says Wax.
In July, Sprout will premiere an new season of The Goodnight Show as Nina and Star help kids wind down for the night. This bedtime tool continues to forge the trusted relationship that children have with Nina (Michelle Lepe).
In September, that relationship will deepen as a new series, Nina’s World, the network’s first fully animated show debuts. The 26 half-hour episodes will explore 6-year-old Nina’s childhood world. Her vibrant community is filled with many diverse friends, and she has strong relationships with her parents and her abuelita (Voiced by Rita Moreno).
In 2016, Sprout is going big. Terrific Trucks will premiere on the network, featuring five real trucks with animated facial features and the adventures they go on in their work.
Wax concluded the panel by saying that the network is proud to be a trusted place where parents and kids can watch together.
Sandy Wax image: Lisa Berg/Sprout
The Goodnight Show image: Ryan Collerd/E!