Toto the Ninja Cat Leaps to Animated TV Series

The beloved "Toto the Ninja Cat" book series, penned by UK television personality Dermot O'Leary, is set to embark on a new adventure as an animated television series. Studiocanal and Superprod are collaborating to bring this action-comedy show, featuring 52 episodes, to life. The series is helmed by Emmy-winning writers Nick Ostler and Mark Huckerby.

The novels center on Toto, a courageous cat who transforms her visual impairment into extraordinary ninja abilities. Inspired by O'Leary's own adopted blind cat, Toto uses heightened senses to navigate her world and overcome challenges. The books have garnered substantial international acclaim since their publication over the last decade.

With six books already released and a seventh forthcoming, "Toto the Ninja Cat and the Football Fiasco," the series has resonated globally. The books have been translated into 19 languages and have sold over half a million English-language copies, demonstrating their widespread appeal. The first book was also adapted into a stage play earlier this year.

Studiocanal is spearheading this adaptation through its Studiocanal Stories label. The books are published by Hachette, which, like Studiocanal, is part of the Bolloré Group. Hachette Children's Group manages the TV and film rights for the "Toto the Ninja Cat" franchise. Dermot O'Leary will serve as an executive producer on the project, alongside Dee Koppang O'Leary. Studiocanal Kids & Family will oversee worldwide sales for the animated series.