Kids

Serious Kids has secured the worldwide content distribution and merchandising rights (excluding Spain, Finland, and Ireland) for the new animated series "Taste Buddies". A co-production between Pikkukala, Dibulitoon, and Ink and Light, the 52 x 11’ series utilizes a blend of 2D and CG animation and has officially entered production. Serious Kids plans to debut the first episodes at MIFA later this year.

The series follows six-year-old Leo, who explores a diverse food culture with his family. Guided by the five Taste Buddies—Sweet Suzy, Salty Sam, Umami Umi, and friends—Leo embarks on "food-finding adventures" to complete a rainbow chart on his fridge. Beyond food, the show addresses emotional themes relatable to young children. Tastebuddies has already been commissioned by RTVE, 3Cat, RTEJr, and YLE, with additional funding from ICEC, Konstsafundet, MEDIA, and Screen Ireland.

The creative team includes story editor Lena Byrne and a writing staff featuring Jo Clegg, Amy Stephenson, and Shane Langan. The first 26 episodes are expected to be completed by the end of 2025, with the remaining 26 scheduled for June 2027.

“We are delighted to announce both the start of production and the appointment of Serious Kids. The Taste Buddies is a great way for kids to explore all the tastes of the rainbow and how they work together. This is not a cooking show nor a nutritional guide but a mission to explore,” said Veronica Lassenius, creator and director of Tastebuddies.

Genevieve Dexter, Founder and CEO of Serious Kids, added: “This is such a fun show, rooted in family life but also action packed with a CG and 2D blend that bounces off the screen with colour and texture. We can't wait to share this with everyone at MIFA.”

Tamsin Lyons from Ink & Light noted the franchise's potential beyond the screen: “We have big plans for supporting products including books as well as games, kitchen tableware and educational material.”

Broadcasters also expressed their enthusiasm for the project’s approach to healthy habits. Yago Fandiño Lousa, Director of Children's Content at Clan RTVE, remarked: “Teaching children to eat well is all about helping them to enjoy their food. Taste Buddies focuses on giving children the tools to ‘play with their food’ in the best possible way.”