In April 1975, Maya the Bee made its official debut on the Japanese NET channel, captivating millions of viewers around the globe. Fifty years later, Maya remains an enduring icon of curiosity, respect for nature, and the joy of exploring the world with friends. Her timeless stories continue to delight children and adults across three generations.
To mark this extraordinary milestone, DeAPlaneta Entertainment has unveiled a special logo dedicated to Maya the Bee’s 50th anniversary. This action marks the beginning of a series of initiatives that will roll out from spring 2025 and continue throughout 2026. These celebrations, both online and offline, will bring Maya into the spotlight with special events in Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece, addressed to the fans who have followed her adventures, admired her green spirit, and embraced her enduring message about the importance of protecting nature and the planet.
The retro-inspired design of the celebratory logo nods to Maya’s origins while maintaining the contemporary essence of the character’s key themes. The logo is meant to resonate across generations, offering a tribute that connects with everyone who cherishes Maya. It will feature on iconic graphics for the 50th Anniversary and will headline a collection of Limited Edition products dedicated to the beloved bee.
Since her debut in Japan, Maya the Bee has rapidly become one of the most cherished and timeless animated characters, alongside her best friends – such as the playful Willy, the wise Cassandra, and the lively grasshopper Flip –, with whom she playfully flies across a natural world rich with values that resonate with both young and old audiences.
Over these 50 years, Maya has been depicted in both the original 2D animation from 1975 and a modern 3D version, bringing her to life in a more contemporary setting. Yet, regardless of the format, Maya remains the same curious and spirited bee, forever tied to her friends and the countless adventures in the Poppy Meadow.
Maya is more than just a bee – she is a symbol of discovery, embodying values essential to every child: friendship, curiosity, and respect for nature. After every adventure, Maya learns that her hive is always there to welcome her back. Much like her loyal audience, who, even 50 years on, continue to follow her flight through countless adventures.
