Full Breakdown
Disney Secures Warrior Cats Animated Series for 2028 Release
6/19/2026, 1:05:29 PM
Series Overview
Disney Kids & Family will stream an original animated adaptation of Coolabi Group’s Warrior Cats franchise on Disney+ and Disney Channel in 2028, with a parallel launch on Tencent Video in China and Southeast Asia. The series adapts the first six books, *Warrior Cats: The Prophecies Begin*, and is led by showrunner A.C. Bradley (Ms. Marvel, What If?) and director Rodrigo Blaas (Finding Nemo, The Incredibles). Original Force produces the CG animation with El Guiri Studios. The Warrior Cats novels, written under the pseudonym Erin Hunter, debuted in 2003 and have grown into a global franchise of over 100 titles, more than 90 million copies sold, and translations into 38 languages.
Timeline
- 2003 – First book released.
- 2024 – Development deal with Tencent Video.
- 2026 – Disney acquisition announced; production begins.
- 2028 – Series premieres on Disney+ and Disney Channel (and Tencent Video).
Data & Statistics
To date the franchise has sold >90 million books, generated >2 million annual website users, attracted 50 million monthly YouTube views, nearly 3 billion TikTok views, and the Roblox game has been played >735 million times.
Why It Matters
Disney gains its first authorized Warrior Cats animation, tapping an established, digitally native fanbase and strengthening its presence in Asian markets via Tencent Video. The project also showcases cross-platform synergy among books, gaming and streaming.
Official Statements & Responses
Disney president Ayo Davis said the series reflects Disney’s aim to deliver fresh storytelling that resonates worldwide. Coolabi EVP Allison Watkins highlighted Disney’s involvement after the 2024 Tencent partnership. CEO Will Harrison called Disney the perfect partner to grow the brand globally. Chairman Neil Court noted the franchise shields the company from volatility in children’s TV.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Davis: “We’re always seeking out fresh, imaginative storytelling that resonates with families around the world.” — Ayo Davis, President, Disney Kids & Family
- “Warrior Cats has inspired a generation of fans, and we couldn’t be more excited to partner with Coolabi Group to bring this phenomenal series to life on Disney+ and Disney Channel.” — Ayo Davis, President, Disney Kids & Family
- “Disney is the perfect partner for such a hugely loved brand, and we look forward to expanding the fanbase further both in the U.S. and globally when the series hits the small screen.” — Will Harrison, CEO, Coolabi Group
- “insulates the company from the vagaries of what’s happening with the kids television business now, which is so precarious.” — Neil Court, Chairman, Coolabi Group
What’s Next
Production proceeds through 2027, with Disney and Tencent Video planning promotional releases ahead of the 2028 debut. No further episode or format details have been announced.
