During the Unifrance Rendez-vous, Xilam Animation secured multiple presales for their latest series, defying a broader industry slowdown.
Xilam Animation, renowned for its contributions to the animation industry, has successfully secured presales for a range of new series during the 2026 Unifrance Rendez-vous. This achievement contrasts sharply with the recent sales downturn reported by France's National Film Board and Unifrance. Among the highlighted titles is the eagerly anticipated ninth season of the classic comedy series "Oggy and the Cockroaches."
The presale deals feature significant offerings, including the landmark ninth season of "Oggy and the Cockroaches," which has been pre-sold to Warner Bros. Discovery EMEA and APAC. Additionally, the fifth and sixth seasons of "Zig & Sharko" have received licensing agreements from JioStar India Private Limited and Warner Bros. Discovery Italy. Noteworthy is the introduction of the new spin-off series "Chickies," which is set to air on Radio Canada and SVT Sweden, with the initial episodes premiering at MIPCOM in 2026.
This announcement from Xilam Animation represents a positive trend, demonstrating their ability to secure presales even as the broader French animation industry grapples with a significant sales slowdown. According to Safaa Benazzouz, EVP Distribution at Xilam, the firm’s established legacy brands continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, contributing to their ongoing market success.
The ninth season of "Oggy and the Cockroaches" will feature 78 episodes and promises to preserve the original elements that contributed to the show's global appeal. The new season is slated for delivery between Q3 2027 and Q2 2028, coinciding with the franchise's 30th anniversary. The episodes will showcase the zany rivalry between Oggy and the cockroaches, which has captivated viewers for years.
The upcoming seasons of "Zig & Sharko" will embrace a summer vacation theme, exploring the adventures of Zig in Season 5 and Marina in Season 6. This expansion continues to build on the show's 15-year legacy and its popularity among fans.
The new spin-off "Chickies" transitions from the successful series "Where's Chicky?," which has achieved over 2.5 billion annual views online. This series will launch with 78 episodes, showcasing the escapades of Chicky and her friends as they explore beyond their coop. Directed by talent from the "Zig & Sharko" team, this colorful new show aims to attract both existing fans and new audiences.
As Xilam Animation rolls out these promising projects, it remains to be seen how these presales will affect market dynamics and viewer engagement in the challenging animation sector in France. The interest from major broadcasters signifies a sustained demand for quality comedic animation, positioning Xilam for a positive response from audiences in the coming years.
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