What to watch
Disney +

DISNEY+ UNVEILS KEY ART AND LAUNCH DATE FOR MARVEL STUDIOS’ “I AM GROOT” SHORTS

Today, Disney+ announced that the latest Marvel Studios addition to their exciting summer lineup, “I Am Groot,” will launch on August 10. “I Am Groot” is a collection of five original shorts starring Baby Groot, everyone’s favorite little tree, and will feature several new and unusual characters. All five shorts will be available for viewers to watch upon launch.  There’s no guarding the galaxy from this mischievous toddler! So get ready as Baby Groot takes center stage in his very owns series, exploring his glory days growing up—and getting into trouble—among the stars. Vin Diesel, who is the voice of Groot in the “Guardians of the Galaxy” franchise, voices Baby Groot. The writer/director is Kirsten Lepore, and the executive producers are Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Brad Winderbaum and James Gunn.

June 7, 2022
Disney Junior

ALICE’S WONDERLAND BAKERY,’ A DELICIOUSLY FANTASTICAL ANIMATED SERIES FOR PRESCHOOLERS, PREMIERES THIS JUNE

Disney Junior’s ‘Alice’s Wonderland Bakery,’ Inspired by the Beloved Classic, Premieres Saturday, 4 June 2022 on Disney Junior Craig Ferguson, Eden Espinosa, Jon Secada, Bobby Moynihan, Ana Gasteyer, Donald Faison, Yvette Nicole Brown and Vanessa Bayer Among All-Star Guest Voice Cast Disney Junior’s “Alice’s Wonderland Bakery,” a fantastical animated series for pre-schoolers and their families inspired by the world of “Alice in Wonderland,” premieres this Saturday, 4 June 2022 on Disney Junior, DStv channel 309 at 08:30.   A vibrant new take on the classic 1951 film, the series centres on Alice, the great-granddaughter of the original heroine and a budding young baker at the enchanted Wonderland Bakery, where her magical treats help bring a new generation of friends and families together. Featuring reimagined versions of familiar iconic characters and introducing memorable new ones, the series stars newcomer Libby Rue as the voice of Alice as well as a slew of celebrity guest stars. See the trailer to the series here. Each episode of “Alice’s Wonderland Bakery,” comprised of two 11-minute stories, centres on Alice’s magical recipe adventures with her best pals, who join her in the bakery to whip up whimsical cakes and treats for friends and neighbours with enchanted kitchen tools and ingredients to help them.  “With so many already familiar with the magic and whimsy of the classic story of Alice in Wonderland – we are sure that this wonderful new series will delight and captivate a new generation of fans,” says Christine Service, Senior Vice President and General Manager of The Walt Disney Company Africa. “Disney Junior is delighted to introduce this series that celebrates the culture and creativity of food, highlights self-expression, and imparts age-appropriate social and emotional lessons about friendship, collaboration, and the importance of community,” she adds.   Geared to kids ages 2-5 and their families, “Alice’s Wonderland Bakery” features Alice’s recipe adventures with her best pals—Fergie, a white rabbit; Hattie, her madcap friend; and Rosa, the Princess of Hearts, as well as her great grandmother’s magical cookbook, Cookie. Alice is inquisitive, persistent and resourceful as she experiments with her baking and invents out-of-the-box solutions for problems that arise. Food is an important part of Alice’s identity, connecting her family from generation to generation and allowing her to discover the distinct family heritages of her friends, each with a wide array of tastes and traditions. In addition to Rue, the lead voice cast includes Abigail Estrella (“How the Grinch Stole Christmas!”) as Princess Rosa, the Princess of Hearts and Alice’s most artistic friend; CJ Uy (“The Ball Method”) as Hattie, a “mad-hatter” boy and Alice’s silliest friend; Jack Stanton (“Outmatched”) as Fergie the White Rabbit, Alice’s best friend and biggest fan; Secunda Wood (“Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous”) as Cookie, the magical cookbook that once belonged to Alice’s great grandmother; and Audrey Wasilewski (“Mad Men”) as Dinah, Alice’s pet cat who is always at her side. Max Mittelman (“Spider-Man”) recurs as Cheshire Cat, Alice’s mysterious and playful friend and one of the most iconic Wonderland characters. “Alice’s Wonderland Bakery” is produced by Disney Television Animation. Emmy® Award-nominated Chelsea Beyl (Peabody Award-winning “Doc McStuffins”) is executive producer, and Frank Montagna (“Elena of Avalor”) is co-executive producer and art director. Ciara Anderson (“Harley Quinn”) is producer, Lisa Kettle (“Mira, Royal Detective”) is story editor, and Emmy-nominated Nathan Chew (“Elena of Avalor”) is supervising director. The writing team consists of Melinda LaRose (“Vampirina”), Michael Rodriguez (“Sharkdog”), Marisa Evans-Sanden (“Fancy Nancy”), Stuart Friedel (“Clifford the Big Red Dog”) and Sara Karimipour (“Ryan’s Mystery Playdate”), and episodic directors are Steven Umbleby (“Monsters at Work”) and Arielle Yett (“The Chicken Squad”). Emmy winner John Kavanaugh (“Sofia the First,” “Elena of Avalor”) serves as the series’ songwriter/music director and Matthew Margeson (“Rocketman”) is composer.

June 3, 2022
Disney Junior

Alice’s Wonderland Bakery – Episodic Synopsis

Episode 1 “Unforgettable Unbirthday” – After presenting a birthday cake for Princess Rosa goes wrong, Alice finds the perfect solution and surprises her with an unforgettable Unbirthday Cake. *Broadway star Eden Espinosa (“Wicked”) guest stars as the Queen of Hearts. “Picnic for One” – The Cheshire Cat puts in a colossal order with Alice for a picnic that he is hosting in the Tulgey Wood, but when Alice and friends come across him in the woods, it seems his party might be a bit lonelier than he let on. Episode 2 “Try Again Tart” – When Hattie wins the Queen’s tastiest tart contest, he needs help with trying to recreate his dish.  “Pie Pressure” – When Alice becomes overwhelmed with orders at the bakery, Fergie offers to help but cuts corners to meet deadlines, and his pies turn into a pie-tastrophy. Episode 3 “No Palace Like Home” – Princess Rosa invites Alice, Hattie and Fergie for a royal sleepover at the Hearts Palace, but when Hattie’s bedtime routine is disrupted, Alice knows just the thing to make him feel better: a taste of home. “A Royal Remembrance” – After an attempt from Rosa and Alice to recreate a beloved recipe for Rosa’s Abuelo, the King of Hearts, doesn’t turn out as planned, Abuelo assures the girls that the most important ingredient was the love they made it with. *Multiple GRAMMY® Award winner Jon Secada guest stars as the King of Hearts. Episode 4 “Alice’s Stormy Afternoon” – Alice makes a treat for Mother Rose’s baby buds but goes overboard with a special ingredient. *Broadway star Mandy Gonzalez (“Hamilton”) guest stars as Mother Rose. “Into the Tulgey Wood” – Rosa’s first camping trip goes awry when the Card Guards insist on accompanying her, and their overprotective nature interferes at every step of the way. Episode 5 “Gallymoggers Granola” – When Hattie eats too much of Cheshire Cat’s granola, he starts to disappear just like Cheshire, so Alice must find the perfect recipe to bring him back. “Sour Grapes” – Rosa attends her first Great Grape Picnic, where she tries new foods with Alice’s and friends’ help. *WATCH ALICE’S WONDERLAND BAKERY ON DISNEY JUNIOR, DSTV CHANNEL 309, EVERY WEEKEND AT 08:30AM

June 3, 2022
Disney +

Ms. Marvel

Marvel Studios’ “Ms. Marvel” is a new, original series that introduces Kamala Khan, a Muslim American teenager growing up in Jersey City. An avid gamer and a voracious fan-fiction scribe, Kamala is a Super Hero megafan with an oversized imagination—particularly when it comes to Captain Marvel. Yet Kamala feels like she doesn’t fit in at school and sometimes even at home—that is, until she gets superpowers like the heroes she’s always looked up to. Life gets better with superpowers, right? U.S. Premiere: June 8, 2022 Cast: Iman Vellani, Matt Lintz, Yasmeen Fletcher, Zenobia Shroff, Mohan Kapur, Saagar Shaikh, Rish Shah, Fawad Khan, Laurel Marsden, Arian Moayed, Adaku Ononogbo, Alysia Reiner, Azhar Usman, Laith Nakli, Nimra Bucha, Travina Springer, with Aramis Knight Directed by: Adil & Bilall (Adil El Arbi & Bilall Fallah) [Episodes 101 and 106], Meera Menon [Episodes 102 and 103], Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy [Episodes 104 and 105] Head Writer: Bisha K. Ali Executive Producers: Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Brad Winderbaum, Adil & Bilall, Bisha K. Ali, Sana Amanat Co-executive Producers: Trevor Waterson, Freddy Syborn Supervising Producer: Jenna Berger Production Company: Marvel Studios

June 3, 2022
Disney +

Rise

Audiences have never seen a story like that of the Antetokounmpos. After emigrating from Nigeria to Greece, Charles and Vera Antetokounmpo (Dayo Okeniyi and Yetide Badaki, respectively) struggled to survive and provide for their five children, while living under the daily threat of deportation. With their oldest son still in Nigeria with relatives, the couple were desperate to obtain Greek citizenship but found themselves undermined by a system that blocked them at every turn. When they weren’t selling items to tourists on the streets of Athens with the rest of the family, the brothers– Giannis (Uche Agada) and Thanasis (Ral Agada)– would play basketball with a local youth team. Latecomers to the sport, they discovered their great abilities on the basketball court and worked hard to become world class athletes, along with brother, Kostas (Jaden Osimuwa). With the help of an agent, Giannis entered the NBA Draft in 2013 in a long shot prospect that would change not only his life but the life of his entire family. And last season, Giannis and Thanasis helped bring the Milwaukee Bucks their first championship ring in 50 years, while Kostas played for the previous season champs, the Los Angeles Lakers. “Rise” stars Dayo Okeniyi, Yetide Badaki, Manish Dayal, Taylor Nichols, introducing Ral Agada and introducing Uche Agada. The film was directed by Akin Omotoso (“Vaya”), written by Arash Amel (“A Private War”) and produced by Bernie Goldmann (“300”). Giannis Antetokounmpo and Douglas S. Jones served as the executive producers. U.S. Premiere: Friday, June 24th Director: Akin Omotoso Written by: Arash Amel Producer: Bernie Goldmann Cast: Dayo Okeniyi, Yetide Badaki, Manish Dayal, Taylor Nichols, introducing Ral Agada and introducing Uche Agada

June 3, 2022
Disney +

DISNEY+ WELCOMES MARVEL STUDIOS’ “DOCTOR STRANGE IN THE MULTIVERSE OF MADNESS” ON JUNE 22

Disney+ announced today that Marvel Studios’ “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” will begin streaming exclusively on Disney+ June 22. Watch the new online spot to see a special “fan thank you” from Benedict Cumberbatch, Elizabeth Olsen, Benedict Wong and Xochitl Gomez. In Marvel Studios’ “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,” the MCU unlocks the Multiverse and pushes its boundaries further than ever before. Journey into the unknown with Doctor Strange, who, with the help of mystical allies both old and new, traverses the mind-bending and dangerous alternate realities of the Multiverse to confront a mysterious new adversary. “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” stars Benedict Cumberbatch, Elizabeth Olsen, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Benedict Wong, Xochitl Gomez, with Michael Stühlbarg, and Rachel McAdams.  The film is directed by Sam Raimi, and Kevin Feige is the producer. Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Eric Hauserman Carroll, Scott Derrickson and Jamie Christopher serve as executive producers. The screenplay was written by Michael Waldron. “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” released in cinemas on May 6, 2022.

June 3, 2022
Disney +

LUCASFILM FEATURES NEW ANIMATED SERIES AND MORE AT STAR WARS CELEBRATION

The fun and excitement continued for fans over the long weekend at Star Wars Celebration in Anaheim, where Lucasfilm unveiled two new animated series, “Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi” and “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures,” and a new special, “LEGO® Star Wars Summer Vacation.”  Lucasfilm also announced that the animated series “Star  Wars: The Bad Batch” will return this Fall and “Star Wars: Visions” will return in 2023.  “Mando+: A Conversation with Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni” shone a spotlight on “The Mandalorian” and “Ahsoka” with cast appearances and announcements, and the “Light & Magic” panel gave fans an informative look at the new documentary about Lucasfilm’s Industrial Light & Magic. One of the highlights of Star Wars Celebration was the surprise premiere of “Obi-Wan Kenobi” last Thursday night, attended by stars Ewan McGregor, Hayden Christensen, Moses Ingram, Bonnie Piesse, Rupert Friend, Indira Varma, O’Shea Jackson Jr., Simone Kessell, Benny Safdie, Jimmy Smits and Vivien Lyra Blair. Director/executive producer Deborah Chow and executive producers Michelle Rejwan and Joby Harold were also in attendance for the event, which featured the first two episodes of the highly anticipated limited series.  Now streaming exclusively on Disney+,  “Obi-Wan Kenobi” is the most-watched Disney+ Original series premiere globally to date, based on hours streamed in an opening weekend.  Additionally, immediately following the “Obi-Wan Kenobi” series premiere launch, Star Wars title viewership on Disney+ tripled in hours-watched during opening weekend. In celebration of the launch, a new character poster is now available.   Recap of highlights from Friday through Sunday presentations:   “LIGHT & MAGIC” ABC News’ Chris Connelly played host to filmmakers Lawrence Kasdan and Ron Howard, alongside VFX luminaries Joe Johnston, Phil Tippett, Dennis Muren, Rose Duignan and Lynwen Brennan as they engaged in a spirited and informative conversation about the groundbreaking history of Industrial Light & Magic, featured in the upcoming six-part documentary series. Granted unparalleled access, Academy Award®-nominated filmmaker Lawrence Kasdan takes viewers on an adventure behind the curtains of Industrial Light & Magic, the special visual effects, animation and virtual production division of Lucasfilm. Learn what inspired some of the most legendary filmmakers in Hollywood history, and follow their stories from their earliest personal films to bringing George Lucas’ vision to life.  Imagine Documentaries is producing the series, which Lawrence Kasdan directs. The executive producers are Ron Howard, Brian Grazer, Justin Wilkes, Lawrence Kasdan, Kathleen Kennedy and Michelle Rejwan. All episodes of “Light & Magic” premiere on July 27, exclusively on Disney+. “LEGO® STAR WARS SUMMER VACATION”  The Summer of LEGOStar Warspanelists Jill Wilfert, Jason Cosler and Jens Kronvold Frederiksen of LEGO, and Douglas Reilly, Josh Rimes, Leland Chee, David Shayne and Chris Gollaher of Lucasfilm, who represented Consumer Products, Games and Animation, were led in a panel discussion by host Yvette Nicole Brown. The presentation showcased an exciting array of new LEGO products bound to keep everyone busy this summer.  During the panel,  “LEGO® Star Wars Summer Vacation,” an all-new animated special, was announced. Premiering August 5, 2022, exclusively on Disney+,  the special stars “Weird Al” Yankovic and the panel’s host Yvette Nicole Brown, and other returning cast members from previous “LEGO® Star Wars” specials. The crowd was delighted to receive “LEGO® Star Wars Summer Vacation” beach balls to carry home. Following the success of “The LEGO®Star Wars Holiday Special”in 2020 and “LEGO®Star Wars Terrifying Tales” in 2021, the popular signature branded cross-saga storytelling continues with this seasonal special. “LEGO® Star Wars Summer Vacation” is  set shortly after the events of “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker.” Looking for a much-needed break from stormtroopers and TIE fighters, Finn arranges a surprise vacation for his friends Rey, Poe, Rose, Chewie, BB-8, R2-D2, and C-3PO, aboard the ultra-luxurious Galactic Starcruiser, the Halcyon. But Finn’s plan to have one last hurrah together quickly goes awry when he’s separated from the group. David Shayne is writer and executive producer, and the director is Ken Cunningham. James Waugh, Josh Rimes, Jacqui Lopez, Jill Wilfert, Keith Malone, Jennifer Twiner Mccarron, and Jason Cosler are executive producers. Produced in collaboration with Atomic Cartoons. “STAR WARS: YOUNG JEDI ADVENTURES” Host Anthony Carboni led panelists executive producer James Waugh, supervising director Elliot Bour, executive producer/showrunner Michael Olson and consulting producer Lamont Magee in a discussion of “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures.”  Set during The High Republic era, “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” will follow Younglings as they learn valuable skills needed to study the ways of the Force and become Jedi: compassion, self-discipline, teamwork, patience, and friendship. The series is set to premiere Spring 2023 on Disney+ and Disney Junior. “MANDO+: A CONVERSATION WITH JON FAVREAU AND DAVE FILONI” Amid roars and applause, Jon Favreau and Dave Filoni took the stage for “Mando+: A Conversation with Jon Favreau & Dave Filoni” that was moderated by Ash Crossan, host of Screenrant. Pedro Pascal, Brendan Wayne, Lateef Crowder, Giancarlo Esposito, Emily Swallow, Carl Weathers, Temuera Morrison, Katee Sackhoff, Rick Famuyiwa, Rosario Dawson and Natasha Liu Bordizzo were all on hand to add to the excitement. Special guests Grogu from “The Mandalorian”  and Chopper, a very special droid that will be featured in “Ahsoka,” delighted the crowd with their very first Star Wars Celebration appearances. The audience went wild when Natasha Liu Bordizzo was announced as joining the cast of “Ahsoka” as fan-favorite character Sabine Wren, and fans were treated to early footage from the series, which stars Rosario Dawson.  In addition to his directing duties, it was announced that Rick Famuyiwa will also executive produce “The Mandalorian,” Season 3. The enthusiastic audience was also shown an extended sneak peek of the upcoming season. Both “Ahsoka” and “The Mandalorian,” Season 3 will stream exclusively on Disney+ in 2023. “STAR WARS: TALES OF THE JEDI”  Host Amy Radcliffe conversed with special guest Dave Filoni who announced that  “Star Wars: Tales of the Jedi,” an anthology of six, all-new, animated shorts, will premiere Fall 2022, exclusively on Disney+. Filoni told the audience that the anthology will feature Jedi from the prequel era, including Ahsoka and Count Dooku. To the audience’s delight, Filoni showed a teaser trailer and the premiere short in the series, showcasing a very young Ahsoka Tano and her mother. Janina Gavankar, who voices Ahsoka’s mother in the short, made an appearance and joined the discussion. “STAR WARS: THE BAD BATCH” SEASON 2 Lots of fun was

June 2, 2022
Cartoon Network Africa

Cartoon Network June Line-up

TEEN TITANS GO! NOW YOU SEE ME… NOW YOU DON’T! This month, Robin, Starfire, Cyborg, Beast Boy and Raven continue the fun in TEEN TITANS GO! with all-new comedic adventures. In the new episodes, when the Titans are not busy saving the world, they are up for some fun and games with our favourite DC Comic characters like Batman, the Joker, and Aquaman! Robin teaches the Titans the art of concealment through a game of hide and seek. The Titans also have some hard lessons to learn about taxes after winning a huge cash prize. With epic contests and a series of quests, one thing is for sure, these Titans will always be ready for an adventure, with or without their capes! PREMIERE:       Monday, 6 June 2022 TUNE-IN:            Monday to Friday @ 17:00 CAT Also available on DStv Catch Up CN MOVIES TIME FOR LEGO DC ADVENTURES! Whether you’re a Superman, Batman, or Justice League fan, we’ve got you covered this month with the LEGO DC Youth Day Movie Stunt. In LEGO DC: Batman – Family Matters, suspicion is high after Batman, Batgirl, Robin, and other DC superheroes receive mysterious invitations. However, family values must remain strong as Batman faces the past to save Gotham City’s future. Then, meet the newest, youngest, and nicest hero in town: Shazam! By shouting one word, 10-year-old Billy Batson transforms into an adult Superhero! It doesn’t take long for the Justice League to notice and invite Billy to join the team in LEGO DC: Shazam – Magic & Monsters. So, join the good fight with this month’s LEGO DC adventures! TUNE-IN: LEGO DC: Batman – Family Matters                    Thursday, 16 June @ 09:55 CAT LEGO DC: Shazam – Magic & Monsters             Friday, 17 June @ 09:55 CAT CN PAPATHON WITH OR WITHOUT CAPES – DADS ARE STILL SUPERHEROES! Who needs a superhero when you have a dad! This month Cartoon Network is paying tribute to fathers across Africa with special episodes with your favourite Cartoon Network dads doing what they do best! Watch as things get insanely funny in The Regular Show, weirdly awkward in Teen Titans Go!, and a little bit weird in The Amazing World of Gumball! Fans can also look forward to even more laughter and adventure in Coach Me If You Can and Craig of the Creek! Are you excited yet? We are! TUNE-IN:            Sunday, 19 June @ 11:25 CAT

June 1, 2022
Boomerang

Tag along for a funny African adventure with Akissi: A Funny Little Brother

The half-hour Boomerang special following a fearless little girl in her day-to-day escapades in a modern African City airs on Thursday, 16 June at 08:45 CAT. This heartfelt Boomerang half-hour special follows a fearless little girl, Akissi, and her monkey friend, Boubou, as they set out on hilarious adventures in their contemporary African city. The show is based on the best-selling comic book series by critically acclaimed Ivorian writer Marguerite Abouet and French author/illustrator Mathieu Sapin.  Akissi: A Funny Little Brother uses humour, energy and a universal style to tell the stories of this small but fierce little girl and her best friend, her monkey. It also paints a portrait of a lively, vibrant and expressive Africa, far from the usual clichés, which will become as familiar to the viewers as it is to Akissi and her friends. With sales of more than 115 000 copies and translated into 9 languages, the Akissi book series, like the animated special, is inspired by Marguerite Abouet’s childhood in Abidjan. “Akissi invites children to go off into a warm and chaotic unknown world, an uninhibited and relaxed roam through an Africa that is so near and yet so far away,” says the writer. “It’s like an open-air theatre where these young characters and their sense of hospitality unceremoniously grab your attention. Even though they have some flaws, they are always happy and active, and children from all over Africa will be able to identify with them.” Akissi: A Funny Little Brother has been produced by Ellipsanime and was co-financed by France Télévisions for France and Warner Bros. Discovery for Africa. The English-speaking version was dubbed using local South African talents through The African Animation Network. Many of the young voice artists reign from the National School of the Arts in Johannesburg, including 16-year-old Phophi Muleya in the titular role. Other African creative talents include Central African-born French singer and musician Bibi Tanga, who composed Akissi’s jazz, funk and afrobeat-influenced music, and Ivorian line producer Angelin Paul from French studio GHWA Productions. “We are delighted to present the world of Marguerite Abouet to our sub-Saharan African audiences. Akissi is a free, curious, mischievous and caring heroine in contemporary Africa’s energetic and vibrant environment. Through this special, we are increasing our animation offering aimed at young African audiences and working towards a diversity of characters in unique stories,” said Ariane Suveg, VP Head of Kids Channels, Warner Bros. Discovery, France, Africa & Israel. Tune in to Boomerang Africa on Thursday, 16 June at 08:45 CAT and relish the laugh-out-loud misadventures of this fearless little girl in her day-to-day escapades in a modern African City!

May 27, 2022
Disney +

DISNEY+ TO DEBUT WALT DISNEY ANIMATION STUDIOS’ NEW SERIES “BAYMAX!” ON JUNE 29

Disney+ has released a new trailer and key art for Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Baymax!” Streaming exclusively on Disney+ on June 29, the all-new series of healthcare capers returns to the fantastical city of San Fransokyo where the affable, inflatable, inimitable healthcare companion robot, Baymax, sets out to do what he was programmed to do: help others. “I thought it would be fun to do a Disney+ series with Baymax interacting with normal folks,” said series creator Don Hall, who helmed 2014’s Oscar®-winning film “Big Hero 6.” “In each of our six episodes, Baymax just wants to help someone—and a lot of times they don’t want to be helped. He sets out to fix a physical issue that he’s identified, and in the process, gets to a deeper, more emotional place and can be almost transformative in that role.” “Baymax!” is produced by Roy Conli and Bradford Simonsen. The series’ episodes are directed by Dean Wellins (Eps 1, 2, 6), Lissa Treiman (Ep 3), Dan Abraham (Ep 4) and Mark Kennedy (Ep 5). Screenwriter is Cirocco Dunlap. Scott Adsit returns as the voice of Baymax. Voice talent featured in episodes include Ryan Potter, Maya Rudolph, Emily Kuroda, Lilimar, Zeno Robinson and Jaboukie Young-White.

May 23, 2022
Parenting Hub

Marmaduke is Back!

It’s time for high discipline in Marmaduke, a legendary dog trainer who believes he can transform Marmaduke from an undisciplined, but lovable Great Dane, into the next winner of the World Dog Championship. Our hero is lovable (if out of control) Great Dane who is happiest when having fun with his family, the Winslow’s, especially when playing “Cowboy” with nine-year-old Billy. But, try as they might, the Winslow’s just can’t seem to keep Marmaduke out of trouble.  When one of Marmaduke’s epic fails goes viral, the video catches the eye of a famous trainer who accepts the challenge of transforming Marmaduke into the winner of the World Dog Championship. It’s a wild ride from there with Marmaduke eventually taking center stage, although not in the way everyone expected.  In the end, Marmaduke and Winslow realize that the most important thing in life is not winning but being true to yourself and the ones you love. 

May 19, 2022
Disney +

DISNEY+ ARRIVES TODAY IN SOUTH AFRICA

Disney+, the streaming service from The Walt Disney Company, launches today in South Africa. Standard pricing at launch is confirmed at R119 per month, or R1190 for an annual subscription, with sign-up information available at disneyplus.com.  With over 1000 films, more than 1500 series and a slate of 200 exclusive Originals from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic and general entertainment from Star, Disney+ offers fans the greatest stories, all in one place. Previously announced, subscribers will have access to Star Wars’ “The Book of Boba Fett”, both seasons of “The Mandalorian” and, from 27 May, the highly anticipated “Obi-Wan Kenobi”. In addition, Disney+ will be the home of the entire Skywalker saga, with Star Wars Episodes 1 through 9 streaming on the service. Confirmed from launch, superhero fans will have access to over 60 Marvel Studios’ films including Academy Award®-nominated “Shang-Chi and the Legend of The Ten Rings”, “Eternals”, “Avengers: Endgame” and “Captain Marvel”, and over 80 Marvel Studios’ series including “Moon Knight”, “Loki” and “WandaVision”. Subscribers will also be able to enjoy over 100 titles from Disney and Pixar, including the entire “Toy Story” franchise, the Academy Award®-winning “Soul” and the Academy Award®-nominated “Luca”. From Walt Disney Animation Studios, stream the Academy Award®-winning “Encanto” which tells the tale of an extraordinary family, the Madrigals, and fan favorites “Frozen” and “Frozen 2”. Disney fans can also stream the Academy Award®-winning “Cruella” starring Emma Stone as the legendary “Cruella de Vil” and Disney’s “Jungle Cruise.” National Geographic documentaries including “The Rescue” and “Free Solo”, from Academy Award®-winning directors and producers E. Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, will sit alongside popular National Geographic series such as “The World According To Jeff Goldblum” and “Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted”. In general entertainment, subscribers will also be able to watch titles including the hit original comedy series “Only Murders in the Building,” limited series “Pam and Tommy”, “The Kardashians”, “Queens”, and mystery thriller “Death on the Nile”, directed by and starring Kenneth Branagh, as well as “The Simpsons” and back seasons of “Grey’s Anatomy”, “9-1-1″, and “Black-ish”. With unprecedented access to Disney’s vault, beloved classics such as “Cinderella”, “Tangled”, “The Princess and the Frog”, and “The Little Mermaid”, will be available to stream alongside recent blockbusters like “Raya and the Last Dragon”. There will also be hundreds of Disney Channel series, shorts, and specials available to stream, including “Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug & Cat Noir” and “Phineas and Ferb”. Users will have access to features like high-quality viewing, up to four concurrent streams, 4k video quality for select titles and the ability to set up to seven different profiles, including the ability for parents to create pin-protected profiles, ensuring kids access age-appropriate content.

May 18, 2022
Boomerang

Web Phenomenon Lucas the Spider is Coming to Boomerang Africa!

Viral sensation with over 870 million views and 3.6 million subscribers will premiere on Boomerang Africa on Monday, 2 May. Adapted from the famed YouTube shorts, Boomerang Africa’s brand-new show, Lucas the Spider, follows the adventures of an adorable little spider named Lucas as he and his friends try to navigate the big and curious human world around them. The fun-filled animated series features a happy, inquisitive, impossibly cute little jumping spider who is four years old and lives in a big, bright Victorian house in the city across from a park. Lucas’s passions are to spread love, live in the now, and explore his world – and that’s precisely what he does. With the help of his group of friends – a dog, chameleon, fly, bumblebee, owl, and more – Lucas bravely leaps head-first into adventure and discovery and makes the most out of every moment while learning about what it means to be a loving friend. Lucas the Spider was originally created by accomplished animator Joshua Slice as a series of animated shorts (voiced by his nephew), which premiered on YouTube in November 2017.  Currently, Lucas has amassed over 870 million views and over 3.6 million subscribers and has launched a successful line of toys and licensed goods. Retaining the authenticity of the original shorts, the producers of the new 3D computer-generated animated show, Fresh TV, in association with WexWorks Media, will focus on Lucas and his innocent and endearing perspective of the world while introducing longer narratives, new characters and an expanded universe. Join the cutest spider you’ve ever seen as Lucas and his animal friends jump onto Boomerang Africa for their latest adventures every weekday at 07:15 CAT, starting on Monday, 2 May.

April 25, 2022
Boomerang

RIGHT ON TRACK! AS THOMAS & FRIENDS FIND A NEW HOME ON BOOMERANG

World-famous children’s animated show brings its fourth major revamp, in its illustrious 75-year history, to Boomerang Africa. Climb aboard for a series of all-new adventures with Thomas the Tank Engine! Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go is set to premiere on Boomerang Africa on Monday, 4 April 2022. The brand-new series, with an entirely new storytelling approach, promises to bring even more fun-filled adventures with vibrant 2D animation and compelling new characters while visiting exciting new locations and learning about teamwork and friendship! The Island of Sodor is home to the biggest, silliest, most musical and toot-ally awesome-est adventures with your number one pal, Thomas the Tank Engine. He is joined by some familiar friends, including Percy, Diesel, Gordon, Nia, a tank engine from Kenya in Africa, and Sir Topham Hatt, along with fresh faces like Kana – the first electric train in Sodor, and the best fix-it crew, Carly the Crane and Sandy the Rail Speeder. But it doesn’t end there. This new series sees a one-hour movie special offering viewers an action-packed adventure with new characters and a collection of new songs in Thomas & Friends: Race for the Sodor Cup, which premiers on Sunday, 17 April @ 06h30 CAT.  “Thomas and his stories have held a special place in the hearts of children across the globe, and we are proud to make Boomerang Africa the new home for Thomas &Friends: All Engines Go. Thomas will be centre stage in the brand-new series. We will see the world through his young eyes,” says Ariane Suveg, VP Kids’ Channels France, French-speaking territories, Africa & Israel. “More playful and relatable than ever before, his competitive spirit will be readily apparent as he strives to be the Number One Tank Engine through more physical comedy and music, play, trial and error, all while just enjoying being a kid!”  Thomas and Friends: All Engines Go is the fourth major revamp ever of the world-famous children’s animated show in its illustrious 75-year history. Brand-new to Boomerang Africa, the show incorporates 26 fun and entertaining social-emotional, cognitive, and physical learning moments throughout the series, including friendship, taking turns, teamwork, self-help, and empathy, a perfect show to entertain and engage the little ones whilst moms and dads enjoy the nostalgia brought on by the show!  Fred Soulie, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Mattel Television, says: “This new creative direction for the classic Thomas & Friends franchise is crafted to appeal to contemporary audiences, yet still maintain the beloved characters’ core ethos: the value of friendship. Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go features stories that are both timeless and timely, with themes that will resonate with children, parents and caregivers alike.” Mattel also gives the gift of playtime fun where kids can make their favourite moments from Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go come to life with a new range of Thomas & Friends toys. Don’t miss out on all the abso-toot-ly, off-the-rails fun with Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go on the new Cartoonito morning block on Boomerang Africa from Monday, 4 April at 06h50 CAT.

April 4, 2022
Parenting Hub

How to Get Your Kids Excited About Going Back to School

Try to think back to when you were a kid. The prospect of going back to school probably wasn’t the most exciting thought for younger you. Even if you did look forward to heading back to school, it probably had more to do with catching up with your friends than spending most of your day in a classroom. And there’s a good chance your kid feels the same way. If the thought of HB pencils and homework puts your kids to sleep quicker than a bedtime story, there are a few ideas to get them excited about back-to-school season. Get Some Blinged-out Stationery  Kids love cartoons, and that love can be leveraged to get them interested in things that would otherwise bore them. That’s where stationery comes in. Instead of stocking up on the typical stationery brands, get your hands on school supplies that feature their favourite animated characters. Is your kid a PAW Patrol fan? Then you’re in luck! You can get collectable PAW Patrol stationery with every Wimpy Kids’ Combo Meal. Head to a Wimpy near you to start your kid’s collection. Plan Something Memorable for Their First Day Make sure the first day of school starts with lots of fanfare. Prepare their favourite breakfast treat or treat them to lunch after their first day of school. It could be the start of a wonderful tradition—and a great way to take the sting out of a new year. Get Creative with Their Lunch A brown-bagged sandwich is okay, but why go with just okay when you can have extraordinary. For the first day of school, treat your kids to a lunch they won’t forget. You don’t even have to prepare it yourself. Order something light and lekker like a toasted sandwich from Wimpy to enjoy at break time. Give Them a Goodie Bag  Ever heard of Schultüte? It’s an age-old German tradition that’s gotten a lot of kids through the first day of school. Schultüte means ‘school cone’, but it has very little to do with ice cream. The large and embellished cone is a gift given to children on the first day of school, and it’s filled with stationery and special treats. If that sounds like something your kid will enjoy, grab some colourful poster board, shape it into a cone, fill it with sweet treats and their new Wimpy PAW Patrol stationery.  Put Yourself in Their Shoes If your kid isn’t keen on going back to school, allowing them to voice their frustration can go a long way. Before convincing them of the importance of school, just let them get their thoughts off their chest without any interruption. They’ll eventually come around to the idea of school, but for now, just let them vent.  It’s common for kids to describe school as boring. If they’re not thrilled by the idea of returning to school, there’s plenty you can do to get them onboard about back-to-school season.

January 18, 2022
Parenting Hub

The new Dogtanian opening in Cinemas 7th January 2022

Dogtanian is an impulsive and idealistic young fellow who lives with his parents in a village in Gascony. His only objective in life is to follow in his father’s footsteps and become one of the King’s Muskehounds.With his horse Sandy, Dogtanian leaves for Paris in search of adventure. He is joined there by Pip, a scrappy and garrulous mouse who becomes his squire.Together with his comrades-in-arms, the Muskehounds Porthos, Aramis, and Athos, he discovers the value of friendship and justice in an endless battle with the perverse Richelieu and his henchmen, fighting against the Cardinal’s power and the threat of war between France and England. Will Dogtanian manage to become a Muskehound and at the same time win the heart of his beloved Juliette? An updated version of the classic 80s television cartoon inspired by the most famous novel by Alexandre Dumas.

January 4, 2022
Boomerang

Boomerang December Highlights DStv (CH302)

Dino Ranch  A Step Back in Time Monday, 13/12/2021 Monday to Friday @ 16:20 CAT  Have you ever imagined a world where humans and dinosaurs live side by side? What would that look like? Meet the Cassidy family, Bo and Jane Cassidy, their adopted children, Jon, Min, Miguel, and a whole lot of dinosaurs at Dino Ranch. This self-sustained ranch also serves as a dinosaur sanctuary where big (and small) exciting things are bound to happen – like when Jon gets spooked by a campfire story about a legendary dinosaur, he doesn’t want to admit to Miguel and Min that he is afraid, then eventually comes clean and learns that his family is there for him whether he’s scared or not. If you believe in the impossible, then you don’t want to miss the brand-new Dino Ranch series launching on Boomerang this December! Grizzy and the Lemmings Monday, 6/12/2021 Monday to Friday @ 07:25 CAT Welcome to Africa Welcome to Africa Grizzy, the bear, just wants to relax – but those rascally Lemmings have other plans in Grizzy & the Lemmings! Join Grizzy and the most manic tiny animals you’ll ever meet – the Lemmings, as they travel all across the globe to the Mother Continent, Africa. From discovering a magical djembe inside the trunk of a baobab tree to using an elephant’s trunk like a powerful vacuum cleaner, the Lemmings have no interest in letting the big bear get his way. You’ll laugh out loud at the wild antics of these animals as they engage in an endless battle of wits, naps, and the hurling of all sorts of objects. Keep up with all the fun with Grizzy & the Lemmings – on Boomerang! Movie Star Special Monday, 6/12/2021 Monday to Friday @ 07:25 CAT Happy Holidays Happy holidays!… Jingle bells, Jingle bells, jingle all the way, what do I watch on Boomerang for this year’s summer holiday? The most wonderful time of the year has arrived, and the best family Christmas movies are coming to Boomerang this festive season! So, grab your popcorn and cool drinks, and sit in for a festive holiday movie marathon with your best-loved Boomerang Movie Stars! From everyone’s favourite frenemies, Tom and Jerry’s merry mayhem at the North Pole in the new movie, Tom and Jerry: Santa’s Little Helpers, and the tap-dancing penguins in Happy Feet 1 & 2, to The Ant Bully, Space Jam and Lego Scooby-Doo! Blowout Beach Bash, you won’t want to miss out!

December 1, 2021
Cartoon Network Africa

Yogi Bear, Cindy, Huckleberry Hound, and a Universe of Hanna-Barbara Characters Welcome You to Jellystone! on Cartoon Network Africa

Original animated ensemble comedy series from Chowder’s C.H. Greenblatt and Warner Bros. Animation marks anticipated return of legendary characters to television after 30-year hiatus  Cartoon Network’s young audience won’t be the only ones delighting in the brand-new, animated series, Jellystone! – there’s something nostalgic for baby boomers and millennials in there too! From 15th of November, Africa’s #1 kids’ channel is bringing on the whacky, wonderful, and absolutely hilarious epic ensemble cast of Hanna-Barbera characters, created by acclaimed showrunner and executive producer C.H. Greenblatt (Chowder, Harvey Beaks) and produced by Warner Bros. Animation.  The series presents a reimagined take on these beloved characters, modernising them for today’s family audience and introducing them to a new generation of fans. Set in the charming town of the same name, Jellystone! follows the Hanna-Barbera characters as they live, work, play, and (often the case) destroy the town in some silly way together.   Huckleberry Hound proudly serves as the town’s mayor; Cindy, Boo Boo and Yogi are the town’s medical staff; Jabberjaw works at Magilla’s clothing store where they supply all the bow ties and hats to the town’s citizens. Every character has a specific role in the community, and their paths cross in fun and ridiculous ways, turning everyday activities into hilarious pandemonium.  “I grew up watching tons of Hanna-Barbera cartoons and have a deep love for these characters,” said Greenblatt. “The massive amount of both classic and not-so-classic characters we were able to use from the Hanna-Barbera library is what really makes the Jellystone! universe special. Rather than recreate the feeling of cartoons of the past, we wanted to have silly, weird fun with these characters and expand their personalities to give them more depth. Chances are, if there’s a character you love, you’ll see them somewhere in this world eventually. We hope long-time fans appreciate our take on this world, and we’re excited that parents get to introduce and enjoy their favourite Hanna-Barbera characters with their kids.” We’re re-writing history at Cartoon Network, so take a trip to Jellystone! from Monday, 15 November, on Cartoon Network Africa.

November 16, 2021
Boomerang

Boomerang lives it up in New York with Tom and Jerry!

Brand-new show launching this October… Winning the hearts of millions is no easy feat, but after more than 80 years and countless accolades, the iconic duo, Tom and Jerry,  are back, better than ever, leaving the suburbs behind for new escapades in New York City. To say Tom and Jerry have been around the block would be the understatement of the century! This pair, who love to hate each other, have been around the globe, gone through time travel, into outer space, down every nook and cranny imaginable, and are now running wild in Manhattan. From Monday, 04th of October, Boomerang Africa will premiere Tom and Jerry in New York, the show parents have been waiting for to introduce their kids to. Follow our favourite cat and mouse as they settle into their new digs at the Royal Gate Hotel and unleash mayhem across The Big Apple, inciting hilarious chaos uptown, downtown, and everywhere their manic escapades take them. So, best believe, Central Park, giant museums, department stores, and even subway cars will be turned upside down, inside out or just be totally annihilated in this brand-new Tom and Jerry series! All these chases and games have not been in vain; in fact, with their lengthy history on the small and big screen, Tom and Jerrycontinue to bring on the childhood nostalgia and fresh memories with equal measure. The two have also been over-achievers in their own unique way, having garnered 13 Oscar nominations for best short subject cartoon and winning seven of them in the franchise’s history. Plus, they did all that without even saying much; legend has it that the first time Tom and Jerry spoke at length was in their 1992 feature film. It does not get any more iconic than that! Get excited for the hilarious return of everyone’s favourite frenemies, as Tom and Jerry in New York premieres on Monday, 4 October at 07:25 CAT on Boomerang Africa! Watch. Play. Laugh.

October 4, 2021
Parenting Hub

Its Adventure Time with 80 Day Around The World

Join young curious Passepartout a scholarly marmoset who always dreameds of becoming an explorer. One day, he crosses paths with Phileas, a reckless and greedy frog eager to take on a bet to circumnavigate the globe in 80 days and earn 10 million clams in the process. Seizing the opportunity of a lifetime to explore the world, Passepartout embarks with his new friend on a crazy and exhilarating adventure full of twists and surprises. The adventure is filled with laughter and sadness as they are being head hunted by a detective who is accusing the frog of stealing money. Yes we all know truth will prevail at the end.

September 2, 2021
Parenting Hub

SPACE JAM: A NEW LEGACY

Welcome to the Jam!  NBA champion and global icon LeBron James goes on an epic adventure alongside timeless Tune Bugs Bunny with the animated/live-action event “Space Jam: A New Legacy,” in cinemas this July.  This transformational journey is a manic mashup of two worlds that reveals just how far some parents will go to connect with their kids. When LeBron and his young son Dom are trapped in a digital space by a rogue A.I., LeBron must get them home safe by leading Bugs, Lola Bunny and the whole gang of notoriously undisciplined Looney Tunes to victory over the A.I.’s digitized champions on the court: a powered-up roster of professional basketball stars as you’ve never seen them before.  It’s Tunes versus Goons in the highest-stakes challenge of his life, that will redefine LeBron’s bond with his son and shine a light on the power of being yourself. The ready-for-action Tunes destroy convention, supercharge their unique talents and surprise even “King” James by playing the game their own way. James stars alongside Oscar nominee Don, Khris Davis, Sonequa Martin-Green, Eric Bauza and Zendaya.

July 1, 2021
Parenting Hub

VAMPIRINA: BEHIND THE MAGIC!

Have you heard about Vampirina? She’s a ghoulish girl in a human world – and she’s the star of Disney Junior’s exciting animated series, Vampirina! Read on for a sneaky peek behind-the-scenes at the making of the spooktacular Disney Junior series…  STORY TIME! Vampirina is Disney Junior’s animated series that follows the adventures of a lovable vampire and her family. “When a young vampire moves from Transylvania to Pennsylvania, she has to learn how to live with humans and stay true to herself,” explains co-executive producer/supervising director, Norton Virgien.  SPOOKTACULAR FUN! The music-filled cartoon series is crammed with fun adventures for Vampirina and her frightfully fab family. In the words of the show’s super-catchy theme song, “They are the battiest monsters you’ll ever meet!”  WORLD WONDER!  In season one of the animated series, fans got to know Vampirina, her family and her brilliant BFFs. In season two, the adventures expand. “We are going to spend a lot more time in Transylvania,” admits Norton. “It’s going to be very exciting to see what happens!”   TOWN TREASURES! Behind the scenes, animators and artists have been working hard to bring new areas of Transylvania to life for the show. “We’ve created a shopping street in Transylvania, which is much like the shopping street in every village or every town,” explains Norton. “We studied old European villages for the look of the town.”  TOY STORY! See if you can spot a Transylvanian toy shop in season two! “The new shopping street features a toy store called FAO Shrieks,” explains Norton. “It’s vaguely related to a famous toy store that used to exist in New York City.”  SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP! How was the shopping street created for the animated series? “We have an artist on our team who used to be an architect,” reveals Norton. “He’s very, very good at turning ideas into reality. He created some beautiful pencil drawings of ornate, gothic buildings, which you’ll see in the show.” MONSTER MAYHEM!  Prepare for some epic monster mayhem in season two. “There are lots of new monster characters who come to visit Vee and her family at the Scare B&B,” reveals Norton.  WEDDING BLISS!  “We have a lot of fun episodes coming up during the second season,” continues Norton. “The Frankenstein monster turns up in Pennsylvania with his bride-to-be. They plan to have their wedding ceremony in the back garden of Vampirina’s house, which is almost a disaster. Monsters from all over come as guests.” Eek!  MUSICAL MAGIC! Listen out for lots of catchy new songs in upcoming episodes. “Vee’s music career in a rock trio called the Ghoul Girls really takes off in season two,” explains Norton. “We’ve even got a series of specially-made animated music videos coming out soon, which we hope will be a huge hit.”  BOOK CLUB!  Did you know that Vampirina was inspired by the super-successful children’s book series, Vampirina Ballerina? “It’s a very, very fun show,” concludes Norton. “You’ll quickly fall in love with Vampirina and all her friends.”  MEET THE GANG!  Who’s who in Vampirina? Here’s co-executive producer/supervising director Norton Virgien on the spooktacular characters in the scream-tastic series…  VAMPIRINA ‘VEE’ HAUNTLEY “Vampirina is the cutest and sweetest little vampire you’ve ever met. She’s charming, cute and lovable.” OXANA HAUNTLEY “Vampirina’s mother is called Oxana Hauntley. She’s all vampire and yet she tries her very best to fit into the human world. To be honest, I think she has more trouble fitting in than the rest of her family put together!”  BORIS HAUNTLEY “Boris is the world’s best dad. When he’s not flying around Transylvania as a bat, he’s always there for his little girl, Vampirina. Oxana and Boris own a bed and breakfast place in Pennsylvania called the Scare B&B. He’s the best!”   GREGORIA  “Gregoria is a gargoyle. She has a heart of stone, but it’s definitely warmed up over the 473 years she’s been around! Gregoria is a great double act with Demi, who is a ghost that lives with the Hauntley family. Gregoria has an up and down relationship with Demi.” NANPIRE “Vampirina’s grandma is called Nanpire The Great. She is the perfect grandmother. Nanpire is very loving and supportive, and her carry-all bag is full of magic tricks. When Nanpire starts singing and dancing, the episode goes through the roof!”  GRANDPOP “Grandpop is a little tied to the old ways. It’s tough for him to live within the human world and to see his family changing. Although he has a heart of gold.” WOLFIE “Imagine the cutest little purple dog. That’s Wolfie. Except this cute little dog turns into a fully-fledged werewolf when the full moon comes out! Wolfie is a really fun character, but stay out of his way if he changes shape.”  POPPY “Vee’s closest friend is Poppy. She’s very cool and hip. Poppy plays the drums in the Ghoul Girls with wild abandon. She is a great accomplice in many of Vee’s little adventures.” EDGAR “Poppy’s brother, Edgar, is an obsessed ghost and monster hunter. He plays a bigger role as the second season goes on. He lives next door to Vampirina and he’s desperate to find out what’s going on in the haunted house next door.”

May 18, 2019
Load More

Sidebar Image

Sidebar Image

Sidebar Image

Sidebar Image

Sidebar Image

Sidebar Image

Sidebar Image

Sidebar Image

Sidebar Image

Sidebar Image

Scroll to Top