Kids
Cartoon Network UK head Andy Bird quits
MUMBAI: TBS International president, which oversees channels including Cartoon Network, TCM and Boomerang in the UK, Andy Bird has resigned from his job, to pursue other business interests.
One of the UK’s longest serving London-based multichannel TV executives, Bird has been with Time Warner subsidiary Turner Broadcasting System since 1994. According to the media reports, Louise Sams the current TBS’s general counsel, will replace Bird. Sams will continue to work out of the broadcaster’s Atlanta HQ in the US.
Bird began his broadcasting career in 1985; working for Piccadilly Radio in Manchester. After working on satellite broadcaster BSB’s music channel The Power Station, he joined the That’s Life production team in 1989 and later, in 1991, hooked up with Chris Evans to set up Big & Good Productions. He joined TBS nine years ago as general manager of Turner Entertainment Networks and was promoted to co-managing director of TBS Europe in 1997. He took up his current job in March this year.
According to TBS chairman and chief executive Philip Kent, “Andy has done a great job running TBS International, particularly in developing a management team of extraordinary skill, depth and stability. We all wish him continued success.”
“Louise has been directly involved in our international business for more than seven years, contributing to strategy, policy and operating decisions in scope far beyond her capacity as our company’s chief legal adviser. Her appointment will bring greater visibility to TBS International business issues at our Atlanta headquarters, while preserving our successful operating model of empowered local and regional management and day to day decision making,” he added.
The media reports also indicate that TBS International’s three regional managing directors – Richards in Europe, Juan-Carlos Urdaneta in Latin America and Steve Marcopoto in Asia will now report to Sams.
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!
