Fred Rogers Productions and 9 Story Distribution International, the global distribution arm of 9 Story Media Group, a leading kids’ content creator, producer, and distributor, are joining forces to bring Donkey Hodie to preschoolers and families around the world. The eagerly-awaited puppet series from Fred Rogers Productions and Spiffy Pictures will be available to international broadcasters for the first time at MIPJunior in October.

The (80×11-min) series, set to premiere in the U.S. on PBS KIDS in 2021, was created by Spiffy Pictures’ co-founders, Adam Rudman and David Rudman, and developed by Ellen Doherty, Chief Creative Officer at Fred Rogers Productions. It is inspired by the work of Fred Rogers.

“Donkey Hodie is a series with universal appeal for children around the globe, and we’re excited to be partnering with the 9 Story Distribution team to bring the show to a worldwide audience,” said Paul Siefken, President and CEO, Fred Rogers Productions. “We’re proud to be modeling resilience and problem solving for young viewers with every new Donkey Hodie adventure.”

“We are so happy to be working with our long-standing partner, Fred Rogers Productions, to distribute this delightful show to viewers everywhere,” said Alix Wiseman, SVP, Distribution and Acquisitions for 9 Story. “Donkey Hodie combines humor, silliness, and a lot of heart to help young viewers tackle some of the problems they face in their daily lives.”

Donkey Hodie is an imaginative social-emotional series that follows the adventures of Donkey Hodie along with her pals, Purple Panda, Duck Duck, and Bob Dog, as they empower preschoolers to dream big, persevere, and discover that they are capable of overcoming obstacles on their own – and laugh themselves silly along the way! The series is inspired by the quirky sense of humor of children’s TV pioneer Fred Rogers and his mission to help young viewers navigate the everyday challenges of childhood. Donkey Hodie is the granddaughter of the original Donkey Hodie character (now known as “Grampy Hodie”) from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, who appeared in 59 episodes of the beloved classic children’s series.

Donkey Hodie features new, original music as well as reimagined versions of Fred Rogers’ original songs to reinforce and underscore each story’s positive message. 

In addition to granting 9 Story Distribution the global distribution rights to Donkey Hodie, Fred Rogers Productions recently named 9 Story Brands worldwide merchandising and licensing partner for the brand in all markets outside of the U.S.