– The 26×22-minute show, aimed at children aged 6-12 and helmed by Karin Kempf, reimagines the universe of Pine Hollow Stables through a contemporary CGI approach
France’s Frog Box and Italy’s Red Monk Studio have announced the start of production on The Saddle Club, a 26×22-minute CGI-animated series based on the bestselling literary franchise created by Bonnie Bryant. The project is being produced in association with Studio Moshi and ZDF Studios, and has been commissioned by France Télévisions, RAI and ZDF.
Executive production duties will be shared between France and Italy, with Frog Box and Red Monk producing alongside Superprod. International distribution will be handled by Superights.
Aimed at children aged between six and 12, and directed by Karin Kempf, the series reimagines the universe of Pine Hollow Stables through a contemporary CGI approach. While remaining faithful to the spirit of Bryant’s original books – which have sold more than 16 million copies worldwide – the adaptation seeks to offer a modern take on friendship, adventure and personal growth, set against an authentic portrayal of the equestrian world.
In detail, the story follows Lisa, Carole, Stevie and their friends during a transformative summer in the wild landscapes of Horseshoe Bay. Horse riding, independence, and the deep bond between children and horses form the emotional backbone of the narrative, as the young protagonists navigate challenges that test their courage and loyalty.
The producers describe the project as an ambitious, character-driven animated franchise grounded in strong emotional storytelling and a rich visual universe. Right from the early stages of development, the creative teams have worked together closely to ensure that the legacy of the property is both respected and refreshed for today’s international audiences.
Stanislas d’Arc, managing director and producer at Frog Box, commented: “We are thrilled to bring The Saddle Club to life for the first time as an animated series. Our ambition is to pass on the iconic universe of a franchise that has inspired generations of horse lovers and outdoor adventurers to a new generation of children worldwide. With an outstanding creative team and strong partners at our side, we are confident that The Saddle Club has a bright future ahead.”
Pedro Citaristi, CEO and producer at Red Monk Studio, added: “This iconic IP deserves a new life that speaks to today’s generations. Working with partners of the calibre of Frog Box, Superights and three leading European public broadcasters allows us to further raise our creative ambitions. Our goal is to deliver a modern, cinematic series that remains faithful to the spirit of the books.”
With its blend of adventure, emotion and humour — supported by an expressive CGI style — The Saddle Club aims to position itself as a flagship title within the international children’s animation landscape. The production also strengthens the long-standing collaboration between the French and Italian partners, underscoring their shared commitment to ambitious European animation.
Founded in 2005 by Olivier Dumont, Frog Box has produced over 300 half-hours of premium animated content, including multiple seasons of the global franchise PJ Masks, co-produced with Hasbro and Disney, as well as Ricky Zoom.
Established in 2017, Red Monk Studio became part of the Superprod group in 2021, and is active across CGI and 2D animation as well as live action. Its recent credits include international animated series such as Piripenguins, Underdog, Lego Friends – The Next Chapter and Harrison and Me, alongside live-action productions including Home Sweet Rome!, commissioned by HBO Max, RAI, WildBrain, the BBC and ARD.
With major European pubcasters on board and delivery set for mid-2027, The Saddle Club marks another high-profile step in the continued expansion of European-originated animated IP onto the global stage.
