Saban Brands will extend the Julius and other characters from the Paul Frank brand to primetime beginning with a Christmas special. The family-friendly primetime event, which will be “in the spirit of ‘The Simpsons’ and with the heart of ‘Modern Family’,” is in pre-production and will debut on TV screens in December 2012.

“Paul Frank is one of our most unique and beloved properties that reaches children and adults of all ages who continue to share a passion for Julius and his loveable friends,” says Elie Dekel, president of Saban Brands. “With this holiday special, we aim to establish Paul Frank as an entertainment brand with a transmedia approach that will build, enhance and extend brand affinity across our key demos.”

Also in time for the holiday season, Julius will debut as a giant helium balloon at the 85th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade on Nov. 24. Saban’s Samurai Power Rangers will return to the parade as well.

Beginning today, more than 700 episodes of Saban Brands’ “Power Rangers” television series–that’s every classic from the show’s 17 year run–will be available via Netflix’s instant streaming service.