Sesame Workshop Expands Animation Slate with Children’s Book PropertiesSesame Workshop Expands Animation Slate with Children’s Book Properties

Sesame Workshop has announced it will be expanding its animation slate with book-based properties, starting with E.B. White’s classic, “Charlotte’s Web.” Partnering with WarnerMedia Kids & Family, Sesame Workshop will begin production in April on the recently greenlit family miniseries, which will be available on HBO Max and Cartoon Network in 2024.  

“For over 50 years, Sesame Workshop has been weaving stories that center memorable characters and diverse, compelling voices,” says Kay Wilson Stallings, executive vice president, creative and production, Sesame Workshop. “Stories can forge powerful connections with kids and families – where better to start than with a faithful retelling of one of the most beloved children’s novels of all time?”  

Academy Award-winning director, Luke Matheny, will serve as executive producer and head writer for “Charlotte’s Web.” Matheny also directs Sesame Workshop’s Daytime Emmy Award-winning “Ghostwriter” on Apple TV+, which draws inspiration from classic literary works like “Alice in Wonderland,” “Frankenstein” and “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.”  

“Charlotte’s Web” tells the story of a livestock pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a barn spider named Charlotte. Martha White, who manages her grandfather’s literary estate for the family, says, “Sesame Workshop outlined a very promising series of episodes for this project, and we are eager to see their creative talents paired with E.B. White’s timeless story.” 

As part of a broader development strategy, Sesame Workshop is also building out its animation slate with new series and specials set on Sesame Street and beyond, launching on WarnerMedia Kids & Family’s newest preschool block, Cartoonito, on HBO Max and Cartoon Network.  

“Animation has always been a part of our DNA, and we’re continuing that proud tradition with engaging new content that supports our mission: helping kids grow smarter, stronger and kinder,” says Wilson Stallings. “Not only are we building on our flagship brand with projects like Elmo Gets a Puppy and Sesame Street Mecha Builders, but we’re also investing in new properties like Bea’s Block and exciting collaborations like this one to captivate the next generation of kids and families.”