Xilam Animation and Youku Develop Merchandise Range for ‘Lupin’s Tales’

Xilam Animation is extending its partnership with Youku, the online video and streaming platform of Alibaba Group, for a new season of the preschool 2D and 3D animated series “Lupin’s Tales”.

Under the existing deal, Xilam and Youku are also collaborating to develop a range of merchandise for the China and international markets, with an initial focus on educational products. Alibaba holds distribution and merchandising rights to “Lupin’s Tales” in mainland China, and Xilam handles the rest of the world.

Alongside the new installment, which is set to launch on Youku and France Télévisions in early 2024, Xilam Animation is producing a new series of shorts from the “Lupin’s Tales” universe for the two broadcasters, titled “Lupin on a Mission”, which is set to launch from this Christmas. 

“Following our highly successful partnership with Youku on the original season of ‘Lupin’s Tales’, which marked our first ever French-Chinese co-production project, it’s fantastic to now be building upon this with an all-new season of this beloved show,” says Marc du Pontavice, chief executive officer, Xilam Animation. “We’ve seen ‘Lupin’s Tales’ capture the hearts and imaginations of audiences across China, as demonstrated by its impressive performance results, and all around the world, so we can’t wait to bring fans these new episodes and shorts that promise even more magical adventures.” 

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“We’re delighted to extend our partnership with Xilam Animation and to bring “Lupin’s Tales” content to Youku and China,” says Ms. Qian Wu, vice president, Alibaba Digital Media and Entertainment Group, general manager, Youku Kids. “The first season has been hugely popular with our audiences who love having the chance to journey into different worlds with the endearing young wolf cub, and we know they’re now going to be really excited to travel around the cosmos in the brand-new episodes.