Last June we broke the good news that the 1980s would be making an appearance in the 21st Century with a new Thundercats animated series in the works at Cartoon Network.  Today, we have the first glimpse at new toys and character designs from the upcoming series.  While the image quality may be less than stellar, they provide enough of a glimpse for Thundercats fans to get excited about the series' premiere later this year.  Hit the jump to check out the new images of Lion-O and company.[Update: Shortly after posting this story, Warner Brothers Animation sent over the first official image and a short synopsis from the new ThunderCats series.  Find both after the jump.]Here is the image [click to enlarge]:Here's the synopsis:

Roaring to life through WBA and Studio4°C’s use of the Japanese animated artistry of anime, “ThunderCats” characters Lion-O, Mumm-Ra, Panthro, Cheetara and others will spring off the screen with realistic cat-like characteristics inconceivable in previous incarnations.

The new “ThunderCats” will appeal to viewers who have loved the characters all their lives as well as young newcomers to the franchise. A sweeping tale combining swords and science and boasting ferocious battles with the highest of stakes, the grand origin story of Prince Lion-O’s ascension to the throne – and of those who would thwart his destiny at any cost – takes on epic dimensions in this sharp new telling. As the forces of good and evil battle each other in the quest for the fabled Stones of Power, Lion-O and his champions learn valuable lessons of loyalty, honor and mortality in every episode.

“ThunderCats” is executive produced by Sam Register (“Teen Titans,” “Ben 10,” “Batman: The Brave and the Bold”). Michael Jelenic (“Batman: The Brave and the Bold,” “Wonder Woman”) and Ethan Spaulding (“Avatar: The Last Airbender”) are the producers.

Now back to the original content of the story:

Images come courtesy of ThunderCats Lair which got them at the London Toy Fair.  Click on either image for a larger version: