Sky Kids adapts Liz Pichon books

The Tom Gates book series is written and illustrated by Liz Pichon

CMC: Sky Kids in the UK has commissioned a new original children’s series based on bestselling books written and illustrated by Liz Pichon.

The Brilliant World of Tom Gates (20×11’) is being produced by TG Entertainment and aims to bring to life the unique and comical world of the titular character.

A combination of 2D and stop-motion animation plus live action, it blends humour with craft ideas and tips for kids and adults to recreate, along with interactive games, gags and songs.

Production of the series has just started in Scotland with Ken Anderson and Arabella Page Croft exec producing alongside Pichon. George Sawyer serves as series director and Sueann Rochester is on board as series producer, while Ben Ward serves as head writer. Wild Child Animation will provide the animation production.

The series was unveiled today as part of the digital edition of Children’s Media Conference. Aimed at 7-12s, it is set to premiere on Sky Kids UK in early 2021, coinciding with the 10th anniversary year of the first Tom Gates book and the publication of the 18th in the series, Tom Gates: Ten Tremendous Tales.

Lucy Murphy, director of kids content at Sky UK and Ireland, said: “Liz Pichon has a brilliant knack of knowing what kids find funny and engaging and I’m delighted to team up with TG Entertainment to bring Tom’s world to the screen for Sky Kids. I know our audience will love this show and be inspired by Tom and Liz to get crafty and creative.”

Pichon’s book series has sold more than 11 million copies worldwide and has been translated into 44 languages.