Boat Rocker Studios and the BBC will produce the animated series alongside Chinese company UYoung. 

The new animated pre-school series is based on the Love Monster series of books by British author and illustrator Rachel Bright. The new collaboration between Boat Rocker, the BBC and UYoung will see the 54 x 7 2D animated series premiere on CBeebies and on major Chinese broadcasters and digital platforms.

The co-production was approved by China’s National Radio and Television Administration (previously known as SARFT).

Showcasing the importance of kindness, empathy, connection and instinct, the show follows the hairy, googly eyed hero Love Monster as he searches for the right thing to do in a world in which he is one of a kind. With a lot of help from his friends – a host of vivid and engaging characters – plus a little serendipity, Love Monster learns to follow his heart rather than his ‘over-thinky’ head while building his inner confidence. By watching his adventures, kids at home can also learn to cope with difficult emotions.

Jon Rutherford, managing director of Boat Rocker Studios, commented: “We are very excited to enter our first co-production with both the UK and China. This is the first collaboration to come through our new offices in Hong Kong and London and forms part of our strategy to grow our footprint in Asia, in addition to solidifying our existing partnership with the BBC. We’re thrilled to unveil Love Monster to the global marketplace.”

Lisa Zhong, president of UYoung, added: “We are delighted to be embarking on our first-ever co-production with the BBC and Boat Rocker. The deal is even more significant as it is also the first-ever UK/China animated co-production. UYoung is always keen to establish stronger ties with international producers and broadcasters to extend its international reach. And with this inaugural co-production approval from CNRTA, gained as a result of our high standards and prestigious position in the Chinese market, we will be able to fully maximise its broadcasting exposure to the benefit of all parties.”

Boat Rocker Rights will distribute the series and manage the global brand and licensing, excluding China and South East Asia which will be managed by UYoung.