An anime TV series based on the hit video game franchise “Kingdom Hearts” has been ordered at Disney+ and Disney Channel.
Developed in partnership with video game creator Tetsuya Nomura and game developer Square Enix, “Kingdom Hearts” (the working title for the anime adaptation) “reimagines the iconic adventure with a brand-new story that will expand on the universe of ‘Kingdom Hearts’ while celebrating the characters that have captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world,” per Disney’s description for the project.
No additional details were given, but a first-look image was revealed that appears to feature “Kingdom Hearts” protagonist Sora and his trusty Keyblade.
Since debuting its first title in March 2002 for the PlayStation 2, Square Enix’s “Kingdom Hearts” franchise has expanded to include more than a dozen games and sold more than 39 million units worldwide.
The “Kingdom Hearts” series news was announced by actor Benjamin Bratt during the Disney Entertainment Showcase panel at Disney’s D23 fan event on Friday. Bratt also revealed he will be voicing his “Coco” character Ernesto de la Cruz in the upcoming “Kingdom Hearts IV” video game, which is set to debut in late 2027 from developer Square Enix.
“Kingdom Hearts” joins a growing list of new original animated series set up at Disney+, including the upcoming “Messi and the Giants,” “Warrior Cats” and “Journey.”
“‘Kingdom Hearts’ has captivated gamers everywhere with its unique blend of adventure and imagination,” Disney Kids & Family president Ayo Davis said. “There’s something really exciting about taking a world fans have spent years exploring through the games and bringing it to life in a completely new way. And with a creative team that is working closely with the legendary Tetsuya Nomura, our new series will be unmistakably ‘Kingdom Hearts,’ while giving fans a whole new way to experience the world they love.”
