Arthur Rankin’s TV Show Roars Back To Life

January 26, 2011

2arthurThe upcoming reboot of a Bermuda animation legend’s 1980s cartoon series about a group of feline-like aliens was the cat’s whiskers at this week’s London Toy Fair.

The Cartoon Network was on hand at the industry event promoting its revival of “ThunderCats”, an animated science fantasy series created by Bermuda based producer and director Arthur Rankin Jr. [pictured] along with American partner Jules Bass.

Word that action figures based on the new series’ characters were being displayed at the London trade show went viral on the Internet this morning [Jan. 26] — at one point heading search engine Yahoo’s! regularly updated list of top-trending news stories.

Although best known for his classic animated seasonal specials like “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer”, “Frosty The Snowman” and “The Little Drummer Boy”, Harrington Sound resident Mr. Rankin and Mr. Bass also produced a variety of cartoon series including “ThunderCats”, “Silverhawks” and shows based on the pop groups the Jackson 5 and the Osmonds.

A total of 130 “ThunderCats” episodes produced by Rankin/Bass ran in syndication from 1985 to 1990 and the show retains a loyal cult following around the world.

“The new ‘ThunderCats’ will appeal to viewers who have loved the characters all their lives as well as young newcomers to the franchise,” said the Cartoon Network. “A sweeping tale combining swords and science and boasting ferocious battles with the highest of stakes, the grand origin story of Prince Lion-O’s ascension to the throne — and of those who would thwart his destiny at any cost –takes on epic dimensions in this sharp new telling.”

The new “ThunderCats” series will debut later this year and Mr. Rankin, now retired, is not expected to play an active role in the production.

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Comments (3)

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  1. Scott says:

    snarf.. snarf…

  2. LOL (original) says:

    Thunder Cats hoooooo………..

  3. alfie says:

    blaughhh…..splat!

    anyone got a mop?