Stan Sakai’s popular Dark Horse comic Usagi Yojimbo was optioned by Gaumont for an animated series to be co-produced by Gaumont, Atomic Monster, Sakat, and Dark Horse.

Gaumont’s current animation properties include shows for the smaller set–like Noddy, Trulli Tales, Belle & Sebastian, Furiki Wheels–as well as the grown-up comedy F is For Family. Current properties in development are targeted at older kids and young adults, like Molly and the Cryptos, Bionic Max, The Star Shards Chronicles, High in the Clouds, and Plunder. While there is no official word of the target audience for the series, Gaumont seems well-suited for any slant on the IP.

“Usagi Yojimbo has been much sought after for many years, and we are honored to work with Stan Sakai to translate his multi-generational stories into the first ever TV series,” commented Atlan. “Usagi Yojimbo’s blend of history and mythology, clever balance between action and comedy, and real-world touchpoints combined with the supernatural, together with the passionate fan base that Stan has already amassed, makes this an incredibly exciting property to develop with our partners Atomic Monster and Dark Horse Entertainment.”

“We get fan mail from readers of all ages across the globe who have been asking to see Usagi Yojimbo in his own TV series,” added Sakai. “With Gaumont, James Wan and his team at Atomic Monster, and Dark Horse Entertainment, we have the best creative talent on board to bring the adventures I have been creating for over 30 years to life.”

“I’ve been an admirer of Stan’s comic series for a long time and it’s an honor to have the opportunity to bring this character and the rich world that Stan’s created to life for a new generation,” said James Wan.

“I’ve long admired Stan Sakai and his storytelling abilities,” said Mike Richardson, Dark Horse Entertainment President. “Stan built an amazing world that Dark Horse has enjoyed exploring in comic book form. We’re thrilled to be part of further exploration in a new, exciting medium.”