MUMBAI: US kids broadcaster Nickelodeon brings literary icon Peter Rabbit to life with the debut of the CG-animated preschool series ?Peter Rabbit? on 19 February.

The series is a fresh re-imagining of the popular Beatrix Potter children?s books based on Peter Rabbit, which have sold over 250 million copies worldwide and been translated into 35 languages. Peter Rabbit features educational goals that encourage preschoolers to learn problem-solving and interpersonal skills, self-efficacy, resilience, positive re-framing and fostering an interest in and respect for nature.

Nickelodeon Preschool executive VP, production and development Teri Weiss said, "This beloved bunny has touched families for many generations and Nickelodeon continues his legacy with brand-new Peter Rabbit stories for them to enjoy. This series captures the spirit of Potter?s timeless books, while adding high stakes adventures to illustrate that with determination and friendship, you can overcome even the toughest of obstacles."

The series follows Peter, a mischievous, charming and brave rabbit who overcomes obstacles, outwits predators and avoids danger. Clever, resilient and funny, Peter Rabbit wants to grow up to be just like his late father and carries his journal (a guide to everything you to need to know to be a good rabbit) on his fun and exciting adventures with his best friends Benjamin Bunny and Lily Bobtail.

Set in Potter?s Lake District, Peter lives in a world where behind every rock there is a surprise to discover and where dangers (be it a sly fox or bad-tempered badger) lurk around every corner.

MUMBAI: Nick Jr. has taken the broadcast rights for Saban Brands? new animated preschool series Julius Jr. in US, Australia and New Zealand. The series will premiere on Nick Jr. this year.

Julius Jr. will be distributed internationally by MarVista Entertainment.

Following the adventures of a young version of Julius the Monkey, Julius Jr. will mark the first television vehicle for Paul Frank. Since its founding in 1997, in a Huntington Beach garage, the lifestyle fashion brand has become globally recognised for its fresh and irreverent designs and colourful cast of characters.

"This is an exciting next step for the Paul Frank brand, and for Saban Brands," said Saban Brands President Elie Dekel. "Julius Jr. will entertain and captivate millions of children and continue our tradition of creating new platforms on which to engage with our brands."

The series is built around hero Julius Jr., a funky monkey with a penchant for invention. Together with his best pals, Worry Bear, Sheree, Clancy and Ping, they build a playhouse out of a simple cardboard box.

But when they walk inside, to their surprise and delight they discover that ordinary objects magically come to life and amazing adventures are just a door away. Julius Jr. proves every day that the best inventions are the ones that help your friends.

MUMBAI: US kids broadcaster Nickelodeon is announcing the series pick-up of ?Sam And Cat?, a spin-off comedy off ?Ocarly? from creator and executive producer Dan Schneider.

Starring Jennette McCurdy and Ariana Grande reprising their roles from their respective shows, ?Sam and Cat? features the pair as unlikely roommates who become teen entrepreneurs by starting their own after-school babysitting business. Sam & Cat will premiere in 2013, with production beginning this January in Los Angeles.

Nickelodeon president, content development, production Russell Hicks said, "Jennette and Ariana are adored by our audience, and it?s great to unite these talented actresses in this hilarious new comedy from Dan Schneider. This show promises to deliver on what our audience loves most about these two favorite characters -- laugh-out-loud humor and non-stop adventure, and is sure to be a compelling new chapter for our new comedic duo."