Kids
Cartoon Network outdoor ads set off terror alert in Boston
MUMBAI: An outdoor campaign by Cartoon Network to promote the upcoming movie release of its late-night cult hit Aqua Teen Hunger Force triggered a police alert for a possible terrorist threat in the US city of Boston on Wednesday.
The scare spurred the Boston police to close highways, two bridges and a stretch of the Charles River before bomb squads determined the supposed bombs to be nothing more than electronic light boards (38 in all) depicting a Mooninite (one of the show’s alien characters) giving drivers the middle finger.
Two men who placed the objects have been charged, state officials said. Boston authorities are reportedly seeking damages to the tune of $ 500,000 as costs incurred in responding to the scare.
Following the ruckus, Cartoon Network’s parent company Turner Broadcasting released a statement: “We apologize to the citizens of Boston that part of a marketing campaign was mistaken for a public danger.
“We also directed the third-party marketing firm who posted the advertisements to take them down immediately.”
The apology didn’t satisfy incensed Congressman Ed Markey, who released a statement slamming the campaign: “Scaring an entire region, tying up the T and major roadways, and forcing first responders to spend 12 hours chasing down trinkets instead of terrorists is marketing run amok. It would be hard to dream up a more appalling publicity stunt. Whoever thought this up needs to find another job.”
That the “suspicious devices” had been in place for two to three weeks in Boston and in nine other cities — New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Atlanta, Seattle, Portland (Oregon), Austin (Texas), San Francisco and Philadelphia — is the most curious aspect of this terror-filled tale.
Kids
Sony YAY! launches ‘House of Masti’ to celebrate 20 years of Shin chan
Comedian Kiku Sharda joins the fun with a special rap track as the mischievous icon returns to Indian TV.
MUMBAI: Shin chan is back and this time, he’s bringing the whole house of masti with him! Sony YAY!, India’s leading kids’ entertainment channel, has unveiled ‘House of Masti’, a specially curated programming block to mark 20 years of the iconic animated series Shin chan on Indian television. The campaign transforms the beloved character’s mischievous world into a fresh, high-energy viewing experience. It features new episodes, fan-favourite moments, and themed programming stunts, all designed to stand out from regular broadcasts.
Adding extra sparkle to the celebration, popular comedian Kiku Sharda has joined the campaign. He anchors the integration with a lively rap track titled ‘Shin chan ka YAY! Dhamaal’, infusing contemporary music and humour into the beloved series.
Sony YAY! business head of kids and animation Ambesh Tiwari said, “Over the past 20 years, Shin chan has built a strong and enduring connection with audiences in India. With ‘House of Masti’, we are celebrating this milestone through a differentiated, campaign-led experience. Kiku Sharda and the rap track add a fun, high-energy layer that will resonate with today’s kids and families.”
Starting 27 April, viewers can enjoy the World Television Premiere of Shin chan along with new episodes and an exciting lineup of blockbuster movies on Sony YAY!.
By blending nostalgia with fresh, engaging content, Sony YAY! is ensuring that the cheeky, laughter-filled adventures of Shin chan continue to entertain and connect with new generations across the country.
In a world full of serious cartoons, Shin chan remains delightfully naughty and with ‘House of Masti’, Sony YAY! is making sure his brand of chaos stays as fresh and fun as ever. Get ready for some serious masti!
