Nickelodeon, the number-one US TV network for kids and the most widely distributed kids' network in the world, has partnered with media content company, Chorion, to present Olivia, a new children's animated television series based on the best-selling books by acclaimed author/illustrator Ian Falconer.

The new CGI series (52 x 11 minute and one 44 minute special) will be animated by Academy Award-nominated Irish animation studio Brown Bag Films. Nick Jr. will present 26 half-hour episodes in the US and sales for the international territories will be made at MIP this month.

"Olivia is one of our most exciting properties and we are thrilled that our enthusiasm for the brand is shared wholeheartedly by our partners at Nickelodeon," said Nicholas James, Chief Executive of Chorion. "We are committed to delivering the very best quality entertainment to audiences globally, and we could not have better partners in that endeavour."

"Olivia is that rarest of creatures: a children's publishing phenomenon with an established international appeal," said Brown Johnson, EVP, Executive Creative Director, Nickelodeon Preschool. "We are delighted to be partnering with Chorion on this new series and look forward to introducing the television adventures of the world's most precocious, yet lovable piglet to new fans in the US."

The first Olivia picture book by US author and acclaimed The New Yorker illustrator Ian Falconer was published in 2000 to rave reviews. Since that time, the series has sold an impressive 2.5 million copies worldwide in 21 languages.

Olivia is a sophisticated yet charming piglet with a flair for the dramatic. Her character is one of boundless energy, self-confidence and exuberance and the new series will see these traits reflected faithfully in Falconer's trademark humor and unmistakable, minimalist, illustrative style.