Banijay Kids & Family Announces Exciting New Distribution for "Once Upon a Time… The Objects"
Banijay Kids & Family, the powerhouse behind beloved shows like “Totally Spies!” and “Mr Bean: The Animated Series,” has exciting news for fans of the iconic “Once Upon a Time…” series. The latest season, titled “Once Upon a Time… The Objects,” produced by Procidis, has secured distribution agreements with several key networks. Viewers in Poland can catch it on Puls 2’s Puls Kids, while Turkey’s Minika GO, Canada’s TFO, and Radio Television Hong Kong will also air the new season.
Continued Success of Earlier Seasons
In addition to the new season, earlier installments of the franchise are thriving. AMC Networks International CNE has acquired Seasons 3 and 7, focusing on “Life” and “Planet Earth,” for multiple Eastern European territories. Meanwhile, SF Studios has picked up Season 3 for audiences in Norway and Sweden.
Cécile Cau, SVP of Sales, Co-productions, and Acquisitions at Banijay Kids & Family, expressed enthusiasm for the show’s enduring legacy. "Its journey across borders illustrates its ongoing relevance and global appeal," she stated. “Once Upon a Time…” has been captivating audiences since its inception by Albert Barillé in 1978, continuously airing in France for nearly five decades.
A Timeless Blend of Education and Entertainment
Benoît Di Sabatino, CEO of Banijay Kids & Family and President of Procidis, shared insights with Variety about the series’ revolutionary impact. "When it was created, ‘Once Upon a Time…’ introduced a unique visual and narrative style that resonates with both children and parents." He emphasized that the franchise’s longevity lies in its ability to blend engaging storytelling with educational themes, making knowledge accessible, playful, and universal.
"The series ignites curiosity in children, leaving a lasting impression as they grow," Di Sabatino explained. "Each new season explores fresh themes that connect with contemporary audiences, ensuring that every episode is driven by curiosity and pedagogy, all while maintaining a sense of kindness toward viewers."
Looking Ahead: New Adventures and Themes
The journey of “Once Upon a Time…” is far from over. Di Sabatino highlighted the strong demand for thoughtful, educational content, indicating that the brand has bold plans to expand under the guidance of Helene Barillé. "We are committed to evolving the franchise for new generations, enhancing its legacy through diverse content, experiences, and products."
The new season, “The Objects,” offers a unique perspective on everyday items that shape our world, cleverly teaching children about science, history, and culture through relatable objects. Di Sabatino noted that buyers have responded positively to the show’s accessible and universal approach, appreciating how it blends education with entertainment.
The Magic of Storytelling
What sets “Once Upon a Time…” apart is its ability to captivate without preaching. "It entertains and invites understanding rather than rote memorization," Di Sabatino asserted. With humor, poetry, and memorable characters, the series brings knowledge to life.
"It has always respected its audience’s intelligence, serving as a trusted source of information that sparks children’s imaginations," he added. The balance of emotion, narrative depth, and scientific accuracy makes it a timeless model of ‘edutainment’—a term that predates its popularization.
Conclusion
With its rich history and continued evolution, “Once Upon a Time…” remains a beloved franchise that bridges generations. Banijay Kids & Family is committed to introducing this classic series to new audiences worldwide, ensuring that its educational value and engaging storytelling will resonate for years to come.
Watch out for “Once Upon a Time… The Objects” and experience the magic of learning through storytelling!
