Paramount Animation and Nickelodeon Animation are teaming with LAFIG Belgium and IMPS to produce multiple movies based on the Smurfs franchise.
The first project under the new partnership banner is an animated musical film produced by all four labels set to begin production this year and set for release on 20 December 2024. Pam Brady (South Park, Team America) is set to write the first movie. Nickelodeon, LAFIG Belgium and IMPS also announced a 26-episode second season of the CG-animated TV series, The Smurfs as well.
“Nickelodeon is the home to some of the world’s most popular family franchises and we’re honoured to add The Smurfs to that roster. We’re excited to tell a story that stays true to its origins, but with a Smurf-tastic musical twist that excites new audiences and builds on the Smurfs franchise and universe of wonderful characters and stories,” Paramount Animation and Nickelodeon Animation president of animation Ramsey Naito said in a statement.
“It is with great joy and pride that I welcome this new Smurfs film! I am truly excited with this wonderful partnership with the talented, creative and dynamic teams at Paramount Animation, Nickelodeon Animation, and IMPS. I am convinced that this great collaboration will allow families around the world to immerse themselves in this unique universe of humor and extraordinary adventures. I have no doubt that my father, creator of these marvelous world-famous characters, would also be delighted with this continuation of his work. I look forward to seeing audiences gather together in the near future to enjoy this new adventure of our beloved Smurfs,” LAFIG and IMPS founder and president Veronique Culliford added.
Under the deal, Nickelodeon licensed the global rights to The Smurfs, which follows Papa Smurf, Smurfette, Brainy, Hefty, Clumsy and others on all-new adventures. The series launched in September in the U.S. and has since ranked among the top five animated series on cable with kids two-11. After its U.S. debut, it aired on Nickelodeon channels internationally. In Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands the series will air on the public channels KiKA, Ketnet, RTBF and npo Zappelin, and in France on TF1.
The Smurfs movie marks Nickelodeon Animation’s second CG-animated theatrical production. The Smurfs‘ rights are represented by WME’s Dave Wirtschafter, Rob Markus and Jordan Naftalis.