Gaumont Animation has taken the animation rights to "Laurel & Hardy" from Larry Harmon Pictures and is planning a new 2D animated series for the brand.

Based on the comedic duo of the silver screen and stage (Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy), Larry Harmon Pictures and Hanna-Barbera co-produced the original "Laurel & Hardy" cartoon in the 1960s.

Gaumont's new comedy series (78x7) will be targeted to children 5- to 8-years-old, and the studio plans to support the series with licensing and merchandising campaigns.

 “Laurel & Hardy are without a doubt two of the world's best-known icons," says Pierre Belaïsch, managing director, Gaumont Animation. "To be given the opportunity to re-launch this unique iconic property has been a dream of mine for many years. In 1966 Hanna-Barbera produced 156 animated episodes and fans everywhere fell in the love with the animated duo. We want to bring the world a totally new series with an updated look, design and feel while maintaining the slapstick humor that made this twosome world famous. Additionally, we are honored to be working directly with Larry Harmon Pictures, who has owned the rights to 'Laurel & Hardy' for nearly 50 years.”