‘Underdog’ Reboot Begins Production in France, Italy

Global animation producer Superprod Animation and its Milan-based company Red Monk Studio have launched production on their new CG-animated series “Underdog,” a reimagining of the classic 1959 cartoon franchise. The series was commissioned by M6 and Gulli in France and RAI in Italy.

This new version of “Underdog” will feel familiar to fans of the 1960s original that endured in syndication for decades across networks including NBC, CBS and Nickelodeon.

Superprod and Red Monk will produce 52 11-minute episodes of the new series, which will be aimed at kids and family audiences and follow the crimefighting antics of Underdog, a clumsy but well-meaning superhero in an oversized suit and cape. According to producers, the updated series will include humor similar to its predecessor while extolling many of the same virtues, such as teamwork, courage, and perseverance. Production will be executed out of Superprod Group’s studios in France and Italy.

The  “Underdog” reboot was developed for TV with feature animation vets Matt Smith (“The Epic Tales of Captain Underpants, The Croods”) and Shane Morris (“Frozen,” “Wreck-it-Ralph”), who will serve as story editors for the show. Episodes are being directed by Charles Vaucelle, best known for his work on popular animated series such as “Pat the Dog,” “Oggy and the Cockroaches,” “The Daltons,” and “Lucky Luke.”

“Reviving ‘Underdog’ for a new generation is such a wonderful opportunity,” said Superprod Group co-founders Jérémie Fajner and Clément Calvet. “With our incredible team of marquee talent, we are thrilled to say, ‘There’s No Need to Fear;  Underdog is Here!’”
Red Monk Studio’s Pedro Citaristi was equally enthusiastic about the commission, saying: “We and our talents are very happy to have the opportunity to work on this amazing series and very proud to bring it to Italy. I would like to thank RAI, M6 Group for trusting and partnering with us.”

For his part, Gulli President Philippe Bony added, “We are delighted with this new collaboration with Superprod and Charles Vaucelle, with whom we already worked on ‘Dogmatix’ and the ‘Indomitables.’ Tender, awkward but brave, Underdog is the kind of hero we love.”

“Underdog” will air on M6 and Gulli in France and RAI in Italy, with delivery scheduled for 2025. Superights, Superprod Group’s international sales arm, will manage global distribution for the show.