As my girls get older, I do find myself occasionally missing certain things from “simpler times” that weren’t all too long ago. One of those things is Chuggington, a series I’d written much about a few years back – a hit from UK-based Ludorum that had been airing here in the States on Disney Junior before quietly building more of a YouTube presence. Now comes news that Ludorum has sold the popular franchise, and the Chuggers have rolled into a new station right here in the States with Herschend Entertainment Studios taking ownership.
“We are excited to welcome Chuggington into the Herschend family,” said Andrew Wexler, CEO of Herschend Enterprises. “As the popular program prepares to celebrate its tenth anniversary, our team has developed plans to extend the brand’s reach by leveraging both its global fan base and Herschend’s portfolio of media, themed entertainment and experience-based businesses. We look forward to creating new and meaningful ways for families to connect with the world of Chuggington.”
Based in the fictional town of Chuggington, the series follows a trio of young, trainee trains, the eager Wilson, loyal Brewster and daring Koko. Under the guidance of their elder “Chuggers,” the main characters embark on exciting adventures and learn valuable lessons about teamwork, friendship and fun.
Herschend is known for live events and theme parks (such as Dollywood), but their entertainment division is growing, with their Splash & Bubbles (produced with The Jim Henson Company) airing on PBS Kids. The company has already promised a big investment in new original content for 2019.
