Production has commenced on animated children’s series “Eddie’s Lil’ Homies”.
The series is inspired by the popular book series of the same name by former AFL star Eddie Betts.
Each of the 10 episodes will run for 12 minutes and screen simultaneously across streamer Netflix and the National Indigenous Television (NITV) network, marking the first co-production between the two companies.
Betts also serves as producer alongside Sophie Byrne (“The Lost Thing”) and Anna Scully, while Bernadette O’Mahony and Mark O’Toole are executive producers.
“Eddie’s Lil’ Homies” had major production investment from the Australian Children’s Television Foundation (ACTF), with production support from Coles and financial assistance from the South Australian Film Corporation (SATC).
The original books were written to motivate and inspire literacy and learning, as well as spreading kindness and understanding, acceptance and equality. They were also designed to start conversations about First Nations cultures and to combat racism and bias.
Betts said he can’t wait for kids across the country to see the show, which follows eight-year-old Eddie and his two best friends Lottie and Tal.
“The “Eddie’s Lil’ Homies” books have been a labour of love for myself and Anna and something I’m really passionate about. Seeing the enthusiasm for the books as I go around the country, and kids doing the raps on social media and asking us about more stories, were what pushed us to team up with Sophie Byrne and the ACTF to develop the animated series. To then have Netflix and NITV immediately see our vision for the series and come onboard to help us bring “Eddie’s Lil’ Homies” to life is really exciting,” he said.
Marissa McDowell, NITV’s head of commissions, added: “NITV continues to bring world-class, First Nations children’s stories to Australians. We are thrilled to continue our longstanding relationship with the ACTF following previous success with “Barrumbi Kids” and “Thalu”. We are also thrilled to be working with Netflix for the first time, and we hope that children come to love this brand-new series inspired by Eddie Betts’ wonderful books.”
Que Minh Luu, Netflix’s director of content in ANZ, said: “We’re thrilled to be partnering with ACTF and NITV for the first time on this charming and fantastical look into the wonder of childhood. As we deepen our local investment we continue to focus on stories and ideas that make Australian audiences feel seen, heard and understood.”
