The Banana Splits are returning to the world of pop culture for kids in a big way, beginning on September 2nd when up to 130 1.5-2.5 minute shorts will begin airing on the Cartoon Network and Boomerang.  The look of the group has been updated, but the characters remain the same.  The property is designed to appeal to kids aged 4 to 7.

 

The re-launch includes a CD and DVD that will feature 13 new songs, and music videos; a new Website where the shorts can be viewed and the songs can be heard; Banana Splitsville, a live show and play-land at Hard Rock Park; a concert tour and other live appearances; plus a wide range of licensed merchandise including toys, games, books, and apparel.  

 

The original property dates to 1968, when the Banana Splits Adventure Hour, a Hanna-Barbera show on NBC that featured comedy and music videos.  The theme song, The Tra La La Song, was one of the most covered songs in the history of contemporary music.  

 

The cross-over between music, TV, and licensing has been the domain of Disney in recent years, with the Cheetah Girls, Hannah Montana, High School Musical, and the Jonas Brothers cranking out success after success.  The Banana Splits are aimed younger, however, perhaps in a play to go after territory that Disney doesn’t already dominate.