Meerkat Manor gets animated feature adaptation from Warner Bros

Warner Bros Pictures Animation is set to take audiences on wild adventure with the adaptation of Animal Planet’s beloved documentary series Meerkat Manor into a feature film.

Drawing inspiration from the success of franchises like Happy Feet, the studio aims to bring the charming meerkats of the Kalahari Desert to life in a whole new way, Deadline has confirmed.

The film, which is in its early development, will be produced by Seth Green and Tracy Falco via the duo’s The Green Room production banner. The original producer of the show, Caroline Hawkins and Clare Birks of Oxford Scientific, will executive produce.

Originally aired on Discovery’s Animal Planet from 2005 to 2008, Meerkat Manor quickly became a fan favourite, captivating audiences with the trials and triumphs of the Whiskers family. With its worldwide recognition, the show garnered Emmy nominations and was the most-watched show on the channel.

“It’s 20 years since we experimented with a wildlife soap opera in a London basement, and now here we are,” said Meerkat Manor creator Hawkins in a statement. “What greater evidence could there be of the enduring appeal of meerkats? I am sure they would be thrilled at attaining stardom in Hollywood!”

Green and Falco jointly stated, “We believe that the heartwarming and entertaining story of Meerkat Manor, replete with all the drama, emotion and humor of the human experience, will resonate with audiences of all ages.”