Kids
Comcast eyeing 24-hr network for kids
MUMBAI: Catch them young! US-based Comcast Corporation is contemplating a network exclusively for kids.
The cable giant is in an advanced state of negotiations with Public Broadcasting System (PBS), Sesame Street Workshop and HIT Entertainment – a United Kingdom-based company producing children’s programming – to develop the 24-hour network dedicated to pre-school kids.
A report in the Wall Street Journal says that the yet-to-be- named network would carry no commercials and would have rights to Sesame Street Workshop’s shows, Barney and Friends, Sesame Street, Bob the Builder and Thomas the Tank Engine.
According to the report, all four partners in the venture Comcast, PBS, Sesame Street Workshop and HIT Entertainment would own stakes in the new digital network. The biggest stake, however, would go to Comcast as will the content rights. Comcast and some of the other partners would contribute an undisclosed amount of cash to fund the new venture.
Interestingly, Walt Disney, that owns Cartoon Network, has also been toying with the idea of launching a channel aimed at pre-schoolers.
Comcast channel could be facing stiff competition from Viacom Inc.’s (VIA) Nickelodeon and Nick Jr.
The report speculates that the deal could be finalised within weeks and that the network could launch sometime next year.
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!
