Genius Brands International has announced the launch of an all-new comedy, action-adventure animated series for children, Superhero Kindergarten created by the legendary Stan Lee. Superhero Kindergarten targets preschool kids in a unique entrance to and sector of the superhero landscape.
Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger (The Terminator franchise, Twins, Kindergarten Cop, Total Recall, Predator) as the lead character, the series will also be co-produced by Schwarzenegger’s Oak Productions and Stan Lee’s POW! Entertainment alongside Genius Brands.
“It is an honour and privilege to work with Genius Brands and POW! Entertainment on this new series and help carry on Lee’s creative legacy by introducing this new group of superheroes to preschool children around the world. Not only does Lee’s Superhero Kindergarten feature comedy and action, but there are many valuable lessons to be learned along the way! Of particular pride to me is the fact that I am not only teaching kids to use their superpowers, but I am also imparting valuable lessons to kids worldwide about the importance of health, exercise, and nutrition,” commented Schwarzenegger.
Deadpool co-creator Fabian Nicieza is scripting the series. Genius Brands chairman/CEO and multiple Emmy Award-winning producer of more than 5,000 episodes of children’s programming, Andy Heyward, and POW! Entertainment president of Gil Champion are serving as executive producers.
Heyward mentioned, “Lee loved and admired Schwarzenegger as not just an actor, but a true hero in so many ways and always envisioned Arnold for this role. Stan was the greatest creator that Hollywood and pop culture has ever known. We are honoured to continue his legacy of creating a new superhero franchise for kids with another iconic hero, Schwarzenegger, in Superhero Kindergarten. What will be particularly unique about this series is that there will be an animated cameo of Stan Lee appearing in every episode. Just as his millions of fans look forward to seeing him appear in each Marvel film, they will look forward to his presence in each episode of this cartoon. The strong positive messages from Schwarzenegger will make it a series that parents will enjoy alongside their children.”
Champion added, “Lee’s Superhero Kindergarten was near and dear to his heart, working with one of his longtime collaborators Heyward, as well as Schwarzenegger, and we look forward to continuing the partnership with Genius Brands to bring Lee’s vision for this new adventure series to life.”
Main Street Advisors CEO Paul Wachter helped to broker the deal and will executive produce with Schwarzenegger, Heyward and Champion. Main Street Advisors represents some of the most prominent and celebrated names in sports, entertainment and business.