Madeline, the Beloved Children's Book Character, is Getting a New Animated Movie
Madeline, the Beloved Children's Book Character, is Getting a New Animated Movie
Will SayreThu, February 26, 2026 at 6:49 AM UTC
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What was your favorite children's book growing up?
For all the once-little girls out there, Madeline hardcovers may have filled your shelves back in the day. And in case you're worried the literary heroine's time has come and gone, that notion can be quashed. The legacy of the beloved redhead who spent her days at a Paris boarding school lives on...
On Wednesday, Feb. 25, Deadline announced that kids and family animation company Sycamore Studios has acquired rights to Madeline, the iconic series written and illustrated by Ludwig Bemelmans.
The studio has reportedly begun early development on a new animated musical feature to celebrate Bemelman's timeless world. It will also look to expand the Madeline brand across film, TV and strategic licensing initiatives, Deadline added, with a focus on preserving the heart and legacy that has resonated with generations of families.
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The outlet noted that Sycamore is working closely with the Bemelmans family, including Barbara Bemelmans — who was the inspiration for her father’s classic character and has been a devoted steward of his work.
"We are incredibly excited to be working with Sycamore Studios," said John Bemelmans Marciano — author of the bestselling Klawde series and writer of six additional Madeline books that built on his grandfather’s legacy following his passing — in a statement on behalf of the Bemelman family, per Deadline. "From the start, they’ve been so respectful of the legacy that has been part of our family for nearly nine decades now. Most important has been their willingness to understand what makes Madeline a timeless character, and not a vessel for the most popular kid trends of the moment."
On a similar note, another high-profile book was recently announced to be adapted — but this one is more suited for young adults. The White Lotus star Aimee Lou Wood is attached to star in a new TV adaptation of Jane Eye, the classic 1847 novel by Charlotte Brontë. Next year will mark the 80th anniversary of the source material’s release.
This story was originally published by Parade on Feb 26, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
