Netflix to debut new Popples animated series late next year

BEVERLY HILLS , Calif., Sept. 24 (UPI) -- Saban Brands and Netflix say they are collaborating on an original children's program based on the Popples toy line and the 1980s Saturday morning cartoon it inspired.

The new show will "re-imagine the nostalgic adorable species of brightly colored creatures that transform from fluffy balls to furry friends and back again, while keeping the same silly spirit of the original Popples characters that fans know and love," the companies said.

Twenty-six half-hour episodes about the Popple Pals' adventures in Popplopolis have been ordered and will begin airing in late 2015.

"We look forward to debuting this new Popples series to children around the world," Haim Saban, chairman and chief executive officer of Saban Capital Group and founder of Saban Brands, said in a statement Wednesday. "Netflix continues to be a great strategic partner, delivering compelling content that kids can enjoy anywhere and everywhere. With the global reach of Netflix, we know Popples will reach a whole new generation of kids that will love it as much as their parents."

"Saban Brands has made history producing iconic and globally recognizable kids shows like Power Rangers, Ninja Turtles: The Next Mutation and the new Julius Jr. series," added Ted Sarandos, Netflix's chief content officer. "We are excited to expand the relationship we enjoy together around the world with the launch of Popples as a new Netflix original series for kids."