By Allison Watkinson
TLL Reporter
Sesame Workshop will be expanding its animation slate with book-based licensed properties, starting with E.B. White’s classic novel Charlotte’s Web.
The upcoming projects are part of a major and ongoing change for the company, which historically has created content primarily based on its own characters and IP.
Partnering with WarnerMedia Kids & Family, Sesame Workshop will begin production in April on the family miniseries. Charlotte’s Web will be available on HBO Max and Cartoon Network in 2024.
Sesame Workshop is the non-profit educational organization behind Sesame Street. Its focus is to provide aid for vulnerable children through media, education, and social impact programs. The organization is currently operating in more than 150 countries.
“For over 50 years, Sesame Workshop has been weaving stories that center memorable characters and diverse, compelling voices,” said Kay Wilson Stallings, EVP, 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?”
Charlotte’s Web tells the story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur’s life is threatened by the man that owns the farm, Charlotte weaves supportive messages in her web in order to save Wilbur’s life.
“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,” said Martha White, who manages E.B. White’s literary estate.
Luke Matheny will serve as Executive Producer and head writer for the Charlotte’s Web mini-series. Matheny previously worked with Sesame Workshop on the Daytime Emmy Award-winning series Ghostwriter.
“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,” Wilson Stallings said. “Not only are we building on our flagship brand with projects like Elmo Gets a Puppy and Sesame Street Mecha Builders, 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.”
As part of their broader development strategy, Sesame Workshop is also further expanding its animation slate with new series and specials set on Sesame Street and beyond.
Wilson Stallings has brought on Heather Alexander as a literary scout to analyze children’s books and other content for future development.