Title: "The Wacky World of Tex Avery" Faces Harsh Criticism and Mediocre Ratings Date: October 6th, 1997 **Disappointment in Animation: DiC's Homage to Tex Avery Draws Ire and Indifference** **Los Angeles, CA** - DiC Entertainment's much-anticipated series "The Wacky World of Tex Avery" has debuted to a barrage of criticism and lukewarm ratings. The show, which premiered in syndication, intended to pay tribute to the legendary animator Tex Avery. Still, it has been described by critics and fans alike as an "insult" to his influential work and legacy. The animation quality, crude humor, voice acting, character designs, and imagery have failed to capture the charm and wit of the original Tex Avery cartoons, leading to widespread disappointment. The theme song and apparent reliance on outdated stereotypes have done little to endear the show to modern audiences, who were expecting a more fitting homage to the innovative spirit of Avery's work. Amidst this backlash, DiC Entertainment has signaled a strategic shift that could reshape its future productions. The company is discussing plans to diversify into adult animation, attempting to move beyond the traditional "Saturday morning cartoon" image and reach broader demographics. This potential pivot comes in light of competing networks such as Cartoon Network and Nickelodeon successfully creating and promoting original animated characters and programs, rather than relying heavily on pre-existing franchises such as Scooby-Doo and He-Man. In a surprising move in March 1997, DiC established a French animation studio, Les Studios Tex S.A.R.L., aiming to produce content that resonates with European audiences and also appeals to international markets. The inception of Les Studios Tex S.A.R.L. can be traced back to October 1995 when DiC Entertainment announced its collaboration with Hampster Productions to open an office in France. Their inaugural project, then titled "Tex Avery Theater," was a package of 195 cartoons expected to launch by October 1996 as "The Wacky World of Tex Avery." Despite the current hurdles, DiC remains committed to its properties, planning spin-offs based on characters from "The Wacky World of Tex Avery" such as Pompeii Pete, Einstone, Power Pooch, and Genghis & Khannie. Furthermore, Les Studios Tex has a lineup of shows in development, including "Sonic Underground," "Archie's Weird Mysteries," "Sherlock Holmes in the 22nd Century," and an untitled animated Stargate film. As DiC faces the challenge of retaining its audience and appeasing fans of Avery's original work, the company's leaders reflect on the stark reminders the "The Wacky World of Tex Avery" has provided. Moving forward, adjustments would be needed to align future content with the evolving expectations of animation enthusiasts and honor the legacies they tackle. For further updates on DiC Entertainment's programming and future developments, stay tuned. *(c) 1997 The Animation Observer. All rights reserved.*

Title: DiC Entertainment Rumored to Develop "Einstone" into an Adult Animated Series Date: October 18th, 1997 **Prehistoric Genius to Get a Modern Twist in Rumored "Einstone" Series** **Burbank, CA** - The animation studio DiC Entertainment, currently facing mixed reactions to its series "The Wacky World of Tex Avery," is rumored to be developing one of its featured segments, "Einstone," into a standalone adult animated series. Insiders suggest that DiC is attempting to capitalize on the character Ughbert Einstone, the world's first inventor, and his prehistoric escapades. "Einstone" centers on the brilliant yet eccentric caveman Ughbert Einstone, whose inventions and discoveries far exceed the comprehension of his less enlightened Neanderthal companions. The show reportedly will delve into Einstone's futile attempts to infuse his crude society with a touch of modern (by Stone Age standards) civilization. Though DiC Entertainment is primarily known for its children's programming, the move to produce content for adult audiences follows industry trends set by other animation powerhouses that have found success with a more mature demographic. Coinciding with the company's intention to venture beyond the realm of "Saturday morning cartoons," the "Einstone" series is poised to offer humor and social commentary suited for an older audience. The inspiration for the series is thought to be derived from the sophisticated storytelling and layered humor found in Tex Avery's original works, which historically appealed to both kids and adults. While the decision to repurpose a character from the underperforming "The Wacky World of Tex Avery" might appear to be a risky gamble, it could prove to be a strategic maneuver that leverages the character's unique appeal for comedic purposes. This marks a potential shift in DiC's traditional approach and demonstrates a willingness to experiment with new genres and formats. The choice of "Einstone" for the adult animation space signifies an interesting development in the evolution of the character. If the rumors prove true, Ughbert Einstone will join the growing pantheon of animated stars headlining shows aimed at older viewers. DiC Entertainment has not released an official statement regarding the "Einstone" series, and details about the potential show remain speculative. However, considering the current landscape of animated television, such a project could attract both former fans of "The Wacky World of Tex Avery" and a broader audience seeking sophisticated humor blended with prehistoric shenanigans. As anticipation for confirmation grows, animation aficionados and industry observers alike are keen to witness whether Ughbert Einstone will make the jump from a segment of a Saturday morning cartoon to the star of a primetime animated series. *(c) 1997 The Animation News Network. All rights reserved.*

Title: DiC Entertainment Eyes Adult Animation Market Following "South Park" and "The Simpsons" Success Date: October 28th, 1997 **After Animated Giants, DiC Entertainment Aims for the Adult Sector** **Burbank, CA** - Following the ratings bonanza for shows like Comedy Central's "South Park" and FOX's "The Simpsons," DiC Entertainment is the latest to cast eyes towards the lucrative adult animation landscape. The Burbank-based animation studio, historically known for youth-oriented programming, is reportedly exploring new forays into content for mature audiences and is in active discussions with networks such as UPN, Comedy Central, and MTV to ink potential deals. DiC's interest in adult animation comes at a time when the genre is experiencing unprecedented popularity. The groundbreaking success of "The Simpsons" and the recent cult phenomenon "South Park" has paved the way for animated programming aimed at young adults and older viewers, clearly indicating a ripe market niche that DiC is eager to tap into. The strategic shift in focus comes on the heels of a less favorable reception to the studio's recent release, "The Wacky World of Tex Avery." With competitors leading the way in original, edgy content, DiC's intention to generate shows for more mature demographics represents a significant pivot from the company's traditional portfolio. The company's vision for this new direction includes creating series that capture the sardonic, countercultural edge that has proven successful for other animated adult hits. This move could prove to be a turning point for DiC, as it seeks to diversify its audience and offer a wider range of content, catering to the sophisticated tastes and humor preferences of young adults. Shows like "The Simpsons" and "South Park" have demonstrated the potential for adult-oriented cartoons to tackle social and political satire, a route that DiC may emulate to appeal to a generation of viewers looking for intelligent and irreverent entertainment options. Plans within DiC are still under wraps, but there's speculation that the studio may revitalize some of its existing characters in an adult context or develop entirely new properties. With the right creative talent and bold programming, DiC could significantly impact the growing trend of prime-time animated series. The move to adult animation would also open up opportunities for fresh storytelling, complex character development, and genre blending, bringing adult themes-often sidelined in animation-to the forefront in exciting and innovative ways. As negotiations continue, DiC Entertainment could soon announce new projects as part of its concerted effort to cater to young adults. With adult animation's stock rising high, DiC's ability to adapt and ride the wave will be a space to watch for both fans and industry professionals. Stay tuned for more updates as DiC Entertainment navigates through this evolutionary phase in its company history. *(c) 1997 The Television Entertainment Weekly. All rights reserved.*

Title: Anime Wave Hits U.S. Shores: Sci-Fi Channel and Cartoon Network's Toonami Lead the Charge Date: November 30th, 1997 **Anime Global Explosion: U.S. Networks Ride the Crest with Sci-Fi Channel and Toonami's Toon Power** **New York, NY** - Japanese anime, long a cult favorite in the U.S., is now enjoying mainstream acclaim, largely due to programming blocks such as Sci-Fi Channel's "Saturday Anime" and Cartoon Network's trailblazing "Toonami" lineup, both captivating audiences with their engaging storytelling and stylized animation. The Sci-Fi Channel has become the destination for science fiction enthusiasts and has smartly expanded its offerings to include "Saturday Anime," bringing feature-length anime films into American living rooms. The success of this programming block can be attributed to a growing appreciation for anime's rich narratives and unique visual flair which resonate with sci-fi and fantasy aficionados. Meanwhile, Cartoon Network's Toonami has become nothing short of a television phenomenon. Since its debut in March earlier this year, Toonami has turned weekday afternoons into an action-packed experience for younger viewers. Offering an eclectic mix of American cartoons and Japanese anime, Toonami serves as a groundbreaking bridge between cultures. Toonami's secret sauce seems to be its well-curated selection of anime, such as the space opera "Robotech" and the adventure series "Dragon Ball Z." These series boast complex characters and serialized story arcs - a departure from the more episodic nature of many American cartoons. This innovative approach to children's programming aligns well with the evolving tastes of American kids and teenagers, who are increasingly seeking more sophisticated entertainment. Anime's unique blend of drama, action, science fiction, and fantasy, coupled with often mature thematic elements, has also struck a chord with older viewers, leading to a broadened audience demographic. As anime fandom grows, it fosters communities that span ages and backgrounds, united by their love for this distinctive style of animation. With "Saturday Anime" and Toonami's success, other networks are taking note, and anime is shaping up to be more than just a trend--it's becoming a staple of American television. The momentum gained by Toonami and the dedication of the Sci-Fi Channel are likely to influence other cable and broadcast networks to explore anime programming, marking a significant moment in the internationalization of entertainment. As these anime blocks prove their staying power and influence, they not only provide a foothold for Japanese animation in the U.S. market but also create a fertile ground for cultural exchange and the growth of the anime industry. Both Toonami and Sci-Fi Channel's "Saturday Anime" are testament to the undeniable appeal of anime and its potential to redefine what American audiences expect from animated entertainment. As the 21st century approaches, the anime invasion shows no signs of slowing down, and American viewers are all the better for it. *(c) 1997 The Entertainment Gazette. All rights reserved.*

Title: DiC Entertainment Set to Deliver "New Adult Series" on MTV Among Other Major Projects Date: February 18th, 1998 **DiC Plots Adult Animation Coup on MTV, Aligns with Sega for Sonic Hero's Return** **Los Angeles, CA** - DiC Entertainment confirms the development of a "new adult series" that could potentially air on MTV, marking the animation studio's significant move into the booming world of adult cartoons. This comes amidst news that the highly anticipated "Sonic Underground" is slated for a fall release this year, just as Sega gears up for a monumental Dreamcast launch in Japan later in 1998 and a subsequent U.S. release in 1999. Amid the growing appetite for mature, sophisticated animations spurred by iconic titles like "The Simpsons" and "South Park," DiC's venture into an older demographic space, with MTV as a prospective home for its upcoming series, indicates substantial confidence in the evolving paradigm of animated series. Known predominantly for its family-friendly fare, DiC's pivot toward adult-oriented content reflects a strategic effort to diversify its portfolio. The untitled animation project is touted to be an edgy, contemporary series with an eye on the young adult demographic that defines MTV's core viewership. MTV, with its cutting-edge reputation, represents an ideal platform for DiC's adult animation endeavors, coming off its own successes with cartoons such as "Beavis and Butt-Head" and "Aeon Flux." The collaboration between DiC and MTV could address the growing demand for content that seamlessly blends humor, cultural commentary, and the unapologetic edge characteristic of the period's animated offerings. In tandem with this bold new direction in television content, DiC is also preparing for the release of "Sonic Underground," a fresh spinoff featuring the world-renowned spiky blue protagonist from Sega's video game dynasty. The timing aligns with Sega's ambitious launch of its next-generation console, the Dreamcast, with the company eager to maintain and build upon Sonic's widespread popularity. "Sonic Underground" promises to expand the Sonic universe with a blend of high-speed adventure and a rocking musical component, as fans will see Sonic and his siblings engage in fresh narratives destined to excite long-time followers and attract new fans before the critical holiday season. The anticipation swirling around both DiC's adult animation project with MTV and the release of "Sonic Underground" reflects the contemporary currents flowing through the animation industry. While neither DiC nor MTV has yet revealed detailed information about the adult series, excitement continues to build. DiC Entertainment's fresh slate of programming and MTV's potential partnership heralds a new era for animated storytelling. As the boundaries of content and audience continue to expand, the partnership positions both companies at the forefront of animation's new golden age, which claims relevance across generations and genres. Stay tuned for more developments as DiC Entertainment and MTV forge ahead in defining animation's place within the dynamically changing entertainment landscape. *(c) 1998 The TV & Media News Tribune. All rights reserved.*

Title: DiC Entertainment's Adult Animation Series Finds New Home on UPN After MTV Passes Date: February 22nd, 1998 **Shift in Strategy: UPN Picks Up DiC's Adult Series After MTV Declines** **Los Angeles, CA** - In an unexpected turn of events, DiC Entertainment's plans to introduce a new adult animated series have veered towards a different broadcasting path. Earlier this month, rumors circulated widely about a potential collaboration between DiC and MTV, but as of recent developments, MTV has opted not to move forward with the deal. DiC has swiftly redirected its ambitions by sealing a partnership with UPN network to air the unnamed adult cartoon. The initial proposal to MTV, which would have seen DiC joining forces with a pioneer of youth and counterculture programming, represented a bold venture into uncharted territory. However, MTV's decision to pass on the series has not dampened the enthusiasm at DiC. The animated programming landscape has become highly competitive, with networks vying for distinctive content that sets them apart. UPN's openness to DiC's adult animation project demonstrates its commitment to diversifying its lineup and attracting a broader, more mature audience base. Known for its eclectic mixture of shows, UPN seems poised to bolster its presence in the animation arena with this latest acquisition. DiC's adult series, still shrouded in mystery, promises to deliver a potent mix of sharp wit and humor tailored to a grown-up audience, a marked departure from the studio's well-established reputation for children's content. The move to UPN indicates a strategic alignment with the network's ambitions and a mutual interest in pushing the envelope of primetime animation. Inside sources remain tight-lipped about the series' premise and creative direction, but expectations are high, especially following the surge of adult-oriented animations capturing the zeitgeist of '90s television. While details are yet to emerge about the upcoming adult series, DiC still captivates audiences with the announcement of "Sonic Underground," set for a Fall 1998 release. The confirmation of UPN as the new home for DiC's adult series injects a sense of anticipation among audiences keen to explore the studio's new face of animation. This last-minute network switch underscores the fluidity and fast-moving deals within the television industry, where programming decisions and partnerships can pivot rapidly in response to the market's pulse. It also highlights the rising stake of adult animation, which has become an increasingly influential genre due to its expansive appeal and capacity for storytelling. As DiC charts a course with UPN, speculation and interest grow surrounding the potential impact of these developments on DiC's long-standing reputation. Will this bold departure into adult content pave the way for newfound success? Only time will tell as the studio embarks on its new venture with UPN. Stay with us for continued coverage on this story and more from the ever-evolving world of television and animation. *(c) 1998 The TV & Media News Tribune. All rights reserved.*

Title: DiC Secures UPN Deal Amidst Animated Programming Boom for the 1998-1999 Season Date: February 27th, 1998 **DiC and UPN Ink Deal as Networks Gear Up for Animation Domination** **Los Angeles, CA** - DiC Entertainment has officially affirmed its venture with UPN, positioning itself firmly in the network's promising programming horizon. This deal arrives in the midst of an animation renaissance as industry giants like Fox Kids, Kids' WB, and Disney's One Saturday Morning ready their lineups for the 1998-1999 fall season. UPN's collaboration with DiC is a response to the competitive landscape dominated by heavy hitters rolling out iconic series. In parallel, Cartoon Network is gearing up to launch its "Cartoon Cartoons" brand with eagerly awaited titles such as "The Powerpuff Girls," "Ed, Edd n Eddy," and "Johnny Bravo." Additionally, Toonami is set to enhance its schedule with the summer arrivals of "Sailor Moon" and "Dragon Ball Z," poised to cater to the anime frenzy. Nickelodeon, not one to be left behind, is slated to debut a slew of new Nicktoons including "CatDog," "Oh Yeah! Cartoons," "The Wild Thornberrys," and has announced the 1999 launch of the soon-to-be iconic "SpongeBob SquarePants." Disney has carved out its dominion not only in weekend slots but also within UPN's weekday schedule. The yet-to-be-named block, formerly known under the working title "Whomptastic," which aligns with Disney's ethos after a terminology reevaluation, will host Disney-produced programs. This development further strengthens UPN's offering for the next season, setting up a robust programming slate. Simultaneously as DiC aims to broaden its repertoire on UPN with adult series, Disney is revving up its presence in the animated scene. The brand is preparing to launch Zoog Disney in August, while the dedicated animated network Toon Disney is slated to premiere on April 18. Not to be outdone, Fox Family Worldwide is eyeing August for the inauguration of Fox Family. In this highly animated environment, DiC's decision to move into adult content on UPN shows an acute awareness of diverse audience demands and the shifting demographics of television viewers. UPN's agreement with DiC promises new frontiers in programming, especially given the attention "Sonic Underground" is drawing ahead of its fall release. DiC's animated lineup for 1998 and 1999 is shaping to be crucial in the company's evolution, considering the vast wave of animated programming surging across various networks. The commitment to a broader spectrum of genres, ranging from children's entertainment to adult series, indicates an adaptive and forward-thinking strategy for DiC Entertainment. With various networks stepping up their animation game, the industry looks set to enter a new golden age of animated content for audiences of all ages. UPN and DiC's alliance adds to this burgeoning movement, demonstrating that the appetite for diverse animation continues to grow robustly. *(c) 1998 The Animated Times. All rights reserved.*