IoM Media Ventures Inc. (IoM) has signed a development deal with Keith Chapman, the creator of Paw Patrol and Bob the Builder, for a new animated series tentatively titled Farmer Mars.
The CGI series, (52 x 11 minutes) aimed at preschool-aged children 3-6, is an original concept created by Chapman, whose popular TV shows have generated over $14 billion to date in global sales. The new property will be co-developed at IoM’s Halifax-based studio
Set on the planet Mars, the show follows a young Earth boy named Rob who gets a job on a farm owned and operated by the upbeat yet absent-minded owner, Farmer Mars. Nestled in the fertile lands of Crater Valley, Martianmallow Farm grows fruits, vegetables, and flowers, but it is most famous for Martianmallows and a weird and wonderful collection of Martian animals that help keep the place running.
“We are very excited to partner with Keith to bring the lovable Farmer Mars to life,” remarked IoM president & CEO, Dana Landry. “With his long legacy of creating some of the world’s most recognizable cartoons and characters, we are thrilled to help create a brand new space-themed universe for children to enjoy – one that is consistent with our vision to bring out the child in all of us.”
“I am very much looking forward to working with IoM to create this compelling world of characters and stories,” added Chapman. “Our fascination with Mars is set to escalate over the coming years as planned missions to the Red Planet draw ever closer. The timing is perfect for the development and production of a Mars-themed show.”
Chapman, a native of London, is best known for creating Paw Patrol, currently airing on Nickelodeon and produced by Spin Master, and Bob the Builder. He has also created and produced several other kids’ series, including Fifi & the Flowertots. Earlier in his career, Chapman worked for The Jim Henson Company on The Muppets, Muppet Babies, and Fraggle Rock. He formed Chapman Entertainment in 2001 with partners Greg Lynn and Andrew Haydon, operating the company until 2013.
