A hit puppet series is getting a new collection of consumer products.
Donkey Hodie, the preschool television series from PBS Kids, is getting its debut collection of apparel and costumes later this year. Fred Rogers Productions, the children’s educational media organization behind the series, and Licensing Street, the licensing agent for the show, partnered with top brands in a variety of categories for this collection.
The first Donkey Hodie products heading to retail include sleepwear from Komar, t-shirts and apparel from Mad Engine, and costumes for role-play from Rubies. Furthermore, Jada Toys will introduce a range of Donkey Hodie toys, including feature plush.
“Consumer demand for Donkey Hodie products has been high since the series debut and we’re excited to welcome these best-in-class licensees to the Donkey Hodie family,” says Matt Shiels, Vice President of Business and Legal Affairs for Fred Rogers Productions. “They are sure to help extend the whimsical and huggable world of Donkey Hodie so children can create their own imaginative series-themed adventures.”
Since Donkey Hodie’s launch, three games have been released and 12 books have been published by Simon & Schuster, all furthering the series’ learning goals for children beyond the broadcast. The show is currently in production on its second season, premiering later this year.
“Donkey Hodie is a winner with kids and families,” says Jason Korfine, Partner at Licensing Street. “Just like viewers who are drawn to the series, licensees have been eager to join in, too, and we’re delighted to be working with Komar, Mad Engine, and Rubies to offer new series-inspired products for fans everywhere.”
Inspired by characters from Mister Roger’s Neighborhood, the imaginative puppet series follows the adventures of Donkey Hodie and her pals Purple Panda, Duck Duck, and Bob Dog. Set in the whimsical land of Someplace Else, the series aims to empower children ages 3-5 to dream big, overcome obstacles, work hard, be resourceful, and discover they can solve problems on their own, all while laughing themselves silly along the way.
Since the series debuted in 2021, it has consistently ranked in the top ten for children ages 2-8 on PBS Kids. The Emmy-nominated show has also had great success on SVOD as well as the PBS Kids Games app and website.
