France Télévisions, RAI, and ZDF Collaborate on New Animated Series ‘The Saddle Club’ Inspired by Bonnie Bryant’s Books

Bonnie Bryant’s "The Saddle Club" Adapted Into Animated Series

Bonnie Bryant’s beloved literary franchise, The Saddle Club, will soon make its debut as a CG-animated series in Europe. The adaptation has secured a co-commission from major networks France Télévisions, Rai, and ZDF.

Produced by Frog Box in Paris and Red Monk Studio in Milan, the series will be crafted in partnership with Studio Moshi and ZDF Studios. Superights will manage the international distribution of the animated show.

With over 16 million copies sold globally, Bryant’s books have proven to be a hit. Aimed at children aged six to twelve, this adaptation will be helmed by director Karin Kempf and is set against the backdrop of Pine Hollow Stables, with an expected release slated for mid-2027.

The series is described as remaining “faithful to the spirit of the original books.” It will follow characters Lisa, Carole, Stevie, and their friends during a transformative summer at Horseshoe Bay, where themes of horse riding, independence, and the enduring bond between children and horses take center stage.

Previously, a live-action adaptation of Bryant’s works aired in Australia on ABC from 2001 to 2003 and again from 2008 to 2009, marking this as the franchise’s first animated incarnation. Bryant’s novels, first published between 1988 and 2001, have left a significant legacy in children’s literature.

Frog Box, founded in 2005 by former Hasbro entertainment president Olivier Dumont, has garnered a reputation for producing successful animated series, including PJ Masks, in collaboration with Hasbro and The Walt Disney Company. The studio is also known for Ricky Zoom.

Stanislas d’Arc, Managing Director and Producer of Frog Box, expressed excitement about adapting The Saddle Club: “We are delighted to announce the adaptation of The Saddle Club into an animated series for the very first time. Our ambition is to pass on the iconic world of a franchise that has inspired generations of horse lovers and outdoor adventure fans to a new generation of children worldwide.”

Red Monk, a part of France’s Superprod Group and founded in 2017, has produced various successful projects, including Piripenguins and Harrison and Me. The studio has recently delivered Spirit Rangers Season 2 for Netflix, along with Les Triplés for France Télévisions.

Pedro Citaristi, CEO and Producer of Red Monk, highlighted the significance of starting production on The Saddle Club, calling it “a major milestone.” He added, “This iconic property deserves a new life for today’s generation, and working with Frog Box, Superights, and our European broadcasters allows us to raise the creative ambition. Our goal is a modern, cinematic series that stays true to the spirit of the books.”