Ukrainian Animated Series Brave Bunnies Saved by International Coproducers; What Will Happen to Masha and the Bear?

Seven hundred Russian and Ukrainian animators signed a letter against the invasion of Ukraine while continuing to work for children worldwide. The Ukrainian preschool animated series Brave Bunnies, created by Olga Cherepanova and produced by Kiev-based studio Glowberry, has been confirmed for a new season despite the war. The series, which airs in 63 countries and was acquired by Aardman Animations, became Ukraine's first internationally successful cartoon. It is broadcast in Italy on Rai Yoyo, Rai Play, and DeaJunior. International coproducers, including Rai, helped the series continue production. Glowberry was working on the second season in Kiev when the war began, but the team is organizing to proceed, emphasizing the series' message of tolerance and respect. Meanwhile, the Russian series Masha and the Bear, the most famous Russian cartoon globally with six seasons and over 100 billion YouTube views, continues to air on Rai Yoyo, DeA Junior, Netflix, and YouTube. Its production headquarters in Cyprus has not faced boycotts. The series is heavily funded by the Russian government and promotes a traditional, gentle image of Russia.