Julian Lennon is making his mark in children’s entertainment, unveiling “Love the Earth,” a new animated series, at SXSW London.
The series aims to blend Indigenous storytelling with environmental activism for young audiences and is based on Lennon’s bestselling “Touch the Earth” book trilogy co-authored with Bart Davis. Directed by Jean-Paul Mertinez and co-produced by Meena Khera, “Love the Earth” employs wildlife modeling, real-time animation, lush 3D environments and immersive sound design. The series is produced by Compassionate Studios in the U.K., with executive producers including Lennon, Davis, Lyndon Haviland, Rebecca Warfield and Forest Trends.
Screen rights were brokered by Erica Spellman Silverman for Robert Gottlieb on behalf of Trident Media Group.
Upon completion, “Love the Earth” will premiere worldwide on YouTube, positioning itself as what the creators call “a new model of purpose-driven, globally conscious children’s and family entertainment.”
The series launched at a panel titled “Love the Earth: Animation for Good,” bringing together a roster of collaborators including United Nations high commissioner for human rights Volker Türk, Mertinez and “Yellowstone” actor Mo Brings Plenty.
“We’re not just telling stories — we’re nurturing Earth heroes, one adventure at a time,” said Lennon. “The Earth needs loving. The children are the heart of that love.”
The launch began with a traditional American Indian Lakota chant from Brings Plenty, who serves as Indigenous advisor on the project.
Among the first confirmed voice cameos is Deepak Chopra, who surprised audiences with a live performance of his character — a wise, endangered Indian tiger who guides children through breathwork and meditation. Sadie Frost and Raff Law are set to voice a mother and son journeying through a misty forest, while Michelin-starred chef Suvir Saran will lend his voice to a critically endangered Spoon-billed Sandpiper.
The series spotlights endangered species and fragile ecosystems while centering Indigenous voices and cultural traditions from around the globe. Each episode is grounded in real ecosystems and informed by authentic cultural teachings.
“All children deserve a healthy planet,” said Davis. “Our common humanity is our greatest birthright.”
In a strategic move to blend animation with reality, the production issued an open global call for filmmakers, conservationists and environmental storytellers to submit real-world footage of nature, wildlife and community-based climate solutions for potential inclusion in the series.
The project has already secured its first major creative partnership with award-winning Indian conservationist and filmmaker Mike Pandey and Riverbank Studios.
After the panel, King Charles, on a surprise visit to SXSW London, met with Lennon, Brings Plenty, Martinez and Türk.
