‘ThunderCats’ fans – your day has finally come! At last, the ‘ThunderCats’ make their long awaited return. The all-new series from Warner Bros. Animation (WBA) marks a creative collaboration with Studio 4C — one of the most vibrant animation studios in Japan — and is a 21st century re-imagining of the iconic 1980s action classic. ‘ThunderCats’ will air on Cartoon Network in 2011. ‘Thundercats’ will be executive produced by Sam Register (‘Teen Titans’, ‘Ben 10’, ‘Batman: The Brave and the Bold’), with Michael Jelenic (‘Batman: The Brave and the Bold’, ‘Wonder Woman’) and Ethan Spaulding (‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’) as producers.
Roaring to life through WBA and Studio4°C’s use of the Japanese animated artistry of anime, ThunderCats characters Lion-O, Mumm-Ra, Panthro, Cheetara and others will spring off the screen with realistic cat-like characteristics inconceivable in previous incarnations.
The new ‘ThunderCats’ is sure to appeal to viewers who have loved the characters all their lives as well as young newcomers to the show. A sweeping tale combining swords and science and boasting ferocious battles with the highest of stakes, the grand origin story of Prince Lion-O’s ascension to the throne – and of those who would thwart his destiny at any cost — takes on epic dimensions in this sharp new telling. As the forces of good and evil battle each other in the quest for the fabled Stones of Power, Lion-O and his champions learn valuable lessons of loyalty, honor and mortality in every episode.
Fans seem to be most excited about the return of Snarf. Much loved throughout the years, Snarf has captured the hearts of countless viewers. As for Snarf’s role in the revamped series, co-producer Michael Jelenic recently said that he would be getting redesigned and would be darker and more anime-influenced.
“We’re looking forward to reigniting the iconic ThunderCats franchise with a worldwide licensing program,” said Karen McTier, executive vice president of Domestic Licensing and Worldwide Marketing for Warner Bros. Consumer Products. “We are delighted with our powerhouse licensee partnerships and innovative line-up that will surely capture the true essence of ThunderCats for both longtime fans and a new generation.”
Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP) will also showcase an engaging and innovative line-up of licensed toys and products in support of the highly anticipated animated television series at the 2011 American International Toy Fair. Global master toy licensee Bandai will unveil an electrifying toy line, including must-have new toys inspired by both the new, re-imagined animated series, as well as the classic franchise. The action-packed toy line-up will include the detailed ‘ThunderCats’ 4-inch figures, each of which come with a weapon or accessory and include an exclusive embedded magnet that allows the toy to interact with and activate unique features in multiple ‘ThunderCats’ products. Fans and kids alike will want to roll into battle with the Deluxe ThunderTank vehicle and 4-inch Snarf figure, and activate the iconic “ThunderCats, Ho!” sound effects. Rounding out the initial Fall 2011 line-up are the highly articulated ‘ThunderCats’ 8-inch Classic Figures, based on the classic 1980s animated series, and the ‘ThunderCats’ Deluxe Sword of Omens, which will allow fans to relive the adventurous series in a variety of ways.
“The ThunderCats toy line from Bandai America captures the thrilling sorcery and sci-fi of the new ThunderCats animated series with high quality, lovingly detailed products appropriate for an active play time or a collector’s shelf,” said Mark Schaffner, Executive Vice President of Toys for Bandai America Incorporated. “These innovative new products will encourage imaginative play and are sure to have kids everywhere shouting “ThunderCats, Ho!” once again.”
Additional key licensees supporting the launch of the new series include Icon Hero, with 6-inch statue collectibles; Hard Hero, with limited-edition porcelain statues; and Mezco, with vinyl figures.
Debuting in 1985, ‘ThunderCats’ roared onto the broadcast air waves and created a feline frenzy with their band of cat-like heroes from the planet Thundera. Behind their fearless leader Lion-O, the ThunderCats strove to protect their new home on Third Earth and their headquarters, Cat’s Lair, from the Mutants of Plunn-Darr. The ThunderCats pop culture phenomenon had its paws sunk deeply not only in television, but also toy lines, apparel and comic books. Twenty-five years later, the beloved brand is poised to make a new audience of kids feel the magic and hear the roar once again.