Canuck net boards Hawking toon

A Canadian broadcaster has joined the development of a children’s TV series based on books by theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking and his daughter Lucy.

George Greenby

TVO in Canada is working with DHX Media on the 39×30′ adaptation of the George Greenby book series, which tell the story an 11-year-old boy and his friend as they explore the universe with the help of a speech-capable app named Cosmos.

The series will also include interactive components designed for mobile and the web.

The project was originally in development with Vancouver-based Nerd Corps Entertainment, which was acquired by DHX for US$50m last year.

Ace Fipke, Nerd Corps’ CEO and co-founder, was made chief content officer, kids and family at DHX following the deal.

DHX is now producing the series, with London-based digital production firm Pure Grass Films as executive producers, co-financiers and distributors for several territories outside of Canada.

“This series will help strengthen kids’ essential STEM skills, demonstrating how to use and apply technology for learning, while teaching them about outer space through science, specifically physics,” said Pat Ellingson, creative head of children’s and parents media, TVO.

“It is very exciting to see our George book series transform into a visual medium, and we are thrilled about the potential to educate through entertainment,” said the Hawkings in a joint statement.