Jackie Chan launches kids animation show

Adventures' cost an estimated $6 million to produce and is set to roll out on over 200 TV channels across China, with an international launch targeted for later this year.


Jackie Chan is returning to the small screen — in animated form, the Hollywood reporter says.

The Hong Kong action-comedy icon will next appear in J-Team: All New Jackie Chan Adventures, a children's 3D cartoon series featuring a child version of Chan and a team of kid protagonists who defend a magical dreamland against monster invaders.

The 104-episode series cost an estimated $6 million to produce and is set to air on three children’s satellite TV channels and 200 terrestrial channels across China. The show also stars child actress Kyana "Poppy" Downs, one of the breakout stars from the smash-hit Chinese reality series Dad, Where Are We Going?

Aimed at children aged 3 to 10, the show was designed to both entertain and impart positive values, with storylines highlighting traditional Chinese virtues and healthy habits. At the end of each episode, Chan briefly appears in live-action form to drive the lesson home and give encouragement.

"It's meant to help young children to do things they don't always like to do — like, don't look at your phone for too long, remember to brush your teeth, respect your elders, pick up the trash," Chan said during a small press gathering held on the eve of the Beijing International Film Festival in the Chinese capital.

He added: "If you just tell them that, sometimes children won't listen, but through comedy and action, then they will start to follow."

Chan's production partners Zhejiang Talent Television & Film, Khorgas JJ Culture Media Co., and VJ Animation Studio have broad trans-media ambitions for the property, with a feature film planned for 2019, merchandising production underway and even theme park attractions under development.