Amazon Studios has teamed up with Mattel's American Girl franchise for a series of live-action specials. According to a press release, the "multi-year, multimillion dollar production deal" includes four specials and options for additional episodic programming.
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“Amazon Studios has differentiated itself by creating shows that bring more than just entertainment to families,” said Catherine Balsam-Schwaber, Chief Content Officer of Mattel Inc. “Their focus on creating positive role models that both inspire and educate was an absolute perfect fit with Mattel’s mission of creating purposeful play.”
"Through its long history of empowering girls with its line of dolls and books, American Girl’s BeForever historical line gives girls today the opportunity to explore the past, find their place in the present, and think about the possibilities their future can bring," stated the release. "The brand’s wildly popular Girl of the Year characters give voice to a diverse range of personalities and reflect the interests and experiences of today’s girls, with each character different and showing girls there is no limit to what they can accomplish."
This will be far from the first time the American Girl brand comes to screens -- the franchise has already a variety of films, including 2008's theatrically released Kit Kittredge: An American Girl and direct-to-video movies about classic historical characters Felicity, Samantha and Molly.
The first special will premiere on Amazon Prime in the U.S., U.K., Germany and Austria later this year.