Reading Rainbow Revived: 24 New Episodes Ordered

Sony Pictures Television has officially ordered 24 new episodes of the beloved children's educational series, *Reading Rainbow*. The revival follows a successful initial run of four digital episodes released in 2025 on the Sony-owned YouTube channel KidZuko, which garnered approximately 4.8 million views. Mychal Threets, known as Mychal the Librarian, will return as host, while Kristen McGregor, a veteran producer from *Sesame Street* and *Ms. Rachel*, will serve as executive producer and showrunner.

Sony Orders 24 Episodes of ‘Reading Rainbow’ RebootDeadline HollywoodThe WrapHollywood ReporterReading Rainbow Reboot Lands 24-Episode OrderSony Orders More Episodes of Mychal Threets’ “Reading Rainbow”

Originally airing from 1983 until 2006, *Reading Rainbow* was designed to inspire children's love for reading. The series was relaunched in 2025 after a nearly two-decade hiatus, aiming to motivate children to become avid readers through engaging content. The revival's initial episodes featured celebrity guests such as Rylee Arnold and Ebon Moss-Bachrach, with books narrated by notable figures including Jamie Chung and Gabrielle Union.

The Wrap

The production team includes Michael Davies, president of Embassy Row, who has emphasized the importance of educational programming in light of declining literacy rates. Tom Calderone, CEO of Buffalo Toronto Public Media, has also expressed enthusiasm about the revival, stating that the positive response to the initial episodes confirms the series' relevance for contemporary audiences.

Deadline Hollywood

Michael Davies remarked, “This series offers more than entertainment—it empowers viewers through reading, which feels especially critical at a time when literacy rates are in historic decline.” Tom Calderone added, “We’ve been working for several years to bring *Reading Rainbow* back... Seeing the impact these first four episodes have already had confirms that the timing is right.”

Hollywood Reporter

The revival of *Reading Rainbow* represents a significant opportunity for public media, particularly for Buffalo Toronto Public Media, which will benefit from the new revenue source once a buyer for the full season is secured. The series aims to address educational gaps and promote literacy among children, a concern highlighted by various stakeholders in the media and education sectors.

Hollywood Reporter

Sony Pictures Television is currently in discussions to secure a television network or streaming service for the new season. The upcoming episodes are expected to feature a variety of new celebrity guests and books, further expanding the show's appeal to young audiences.

Sony Orders 24 Episodes of ‘Reading Rainbow’ Reboot

• “This series offers more than entertainment—it empowers viewers through reading, which feels especially critical at a time when literacy rates are in historic decline.” — Michael Davies, President of Embassy Row

Hollywood Reporter

• “We’ve been working for several years to bring Reading Rainbow back, and Michael Davies and Embassy Row have been the ideal partners to help make that vision a reality,” — Tom Calderone, CEO of Buffalo Toronto Public Media

Hollywood Reporter

The revival of *Reading Rainbow* not only marks a nostalgic return for fans but also aims to play a crucial role in fostering a love for reading among the next generation.

Sony Orders More Episodes of Mychal Threets’ “Reading Rainbow”