Miklos Perlus Heads To Kidscreen With TVOkids-Backed Preschool Animated Series Squish and Squash Save the Universe

Here To Save The Universe

Miklos Perlus and Mik Believe Entertainment will attend the Kidscreen Summit in San Diego to introduce Squish and Squash Save the Universe, a new 2D animated preschool comedy-adventure series currently in development with TVOkids…

Aimed at children ages 4 – 7, Squish and Squash Save the Universe follows two rookie first responders as they tackle out-of-this-world environmental disasters and eco-villains, proving that even underdogs can face a changing universe, and learn about environmental science along the way. Fast-paced physical comedy and high-energy action drive each episode, with science concepts woven organically into the storytelling.

The animated series is adapted from the comic book Squish and Squash, created by Niall O’Rourke and Mike Hartigan and published by Keenspot Entertainment. The comic was a nominee for Best Kids Comic at the 2024 Ringo Awards, earning recognition for its humour, heart, and kid-friendly storytelling

The series is designed as a 39 X 7 minute 2D animated format, with a targeted delivery in 2027. Development materials include a full series bible, multiple scripts, designs, and a preliminary production budget and schedule.

“At TVOKids, we’re always looking for programming that sparks curiosity and supports meaningful learning,” said Kirsten Hurd, Commissioning Editor, TVOKids.  The series’ playful approach to environmental science, combined with strong comedic storytelling, makes it a perfect project for TVOKids.

“Seeing our characters expand into an animated series is incredibly exciting,” said Niall O’Rourke, co-creator of Squish and Squash. “Mik has really captured the spirit of what we set out to create, and it’s thrilling to imagine these stories reaching kids in a whole new way.”

“Mik understands what makes Squish and Squash work,” added Mike Hartigan, co-creator of the comic. “This adaptation stays true to the comic while expanding the universe in smart, playful ways that work beautifully for animation.”

“At Keenspot, we love seeing creator-owned stories grow beyond their original format,” said Chris Crosby, CEO of Keenspot Entertainment. “Squish and Squash is a wonderful example of how a strong comic property can evolve into a series that entertains and inspires young audiences.”

Perlus, an experienced writer, creative executive, and showrunner, is attending Kidscreen to meet with international broadcasters, distributors, animation studios, and strategic partners to complete financing and move the project into production.

“Kidscreen is the right place to bring together the creative, financial, and international partners this show needs,” said Perlus. “Squish and Squash is built to entertain first while also giving kids a fun, accessible way to engage with environmental science and big ideas about responsibility, teamwork, and most importantly, resilience.”

At Kidscreen, Mik Believe Entertainment will be seeking international co-production partners, animation studio partners, distributors, and pre-buy commitments to support the series’ global rollout.

Project Details

• Title: Squish and Squash Save the Universe

• Based On: Squish and Squash, created by Niall O’Rourke and Mike Hartigan, published by Keenspot Entertainment

• Format: 2D animated series

• Target Audience: Ages 4–7

• Episode Length: 7 minutes

• Episode Order: 39 episodes

• Delivery: 2027

• Status: In development with TVOKids; scripts, bible, designs, and budget in place

• Partners Sought: International co-production, animation studio, distribution, and broadcast partners

About Miklos Perlus / Mik Believe Entertainment

Miklos Perlus is an Award Winning and Emmy nominated writer, creative executive, and showrunner with decades of experience creating and producing children’s and family programming for broadcasters in Canada and around the world, including CoComelon (Netflix), Caillou (WildBrain), and Nina’s World (Universal Kids). Through Mik Believe Entertainment, he develops and produces original animated and live-action content that blends comedy, heart, and meaningful themes for young audiences.

About TVO Media Education Group

TVO Media Education Group inspires learning that changes lives and enriches communities. Founded in 1970, we are a globally recognized digital learning organization that engages Ontarians of all ages with inclusive experiences and diverse perspectives. Through our brands TVO Today, TVO Learn, TVO ILC and TVOkids, we’re investing in the transformative potential of education for everyone. TVO is a registered charity funded in part by the Province of Ontario and supported by thousands of sponsors and donors. Visit TVO.me for more information.