In a special episode of Disney Junior‘s Sofia the First, the series will introduce Princess Elena of Avalor, a confident and compassionate teenager in an enchanted fairytale kingdom inspired by diverse Latin cultures and folklore. Premiering in 2016, this special episode will usher in the launch of the animated series Elena of Avalor (also in 2016).
“Our creative team has delivered a universal story with themes that authentically reflect the hopes and dreams of our diverse audience,” says Nancy Kanter, executive vice president and general manager, Disney Junior Worldwide. “What excites us most is the chance to use distinctive animation and visual design to tell wonderful stories influenced by culture and traditions that are familiar to the worldwide population of Hispanic and Latino families and reflect the interests and aspirations of all children as told through a classic fairytale.”
Princess Elena’s journey began when her parents and kingdom were taken from her by the evil sorceress, Shuriki. Elena bravely faced the sorceress to protect her little sister, Isbael, and her grandparents. In the process of saving them, her magical amulet pulled her inside, saving her life but imprisioning her at the same time. Decades later, Princess Sofia of Enchancia discovers the truth about the amulet she has worn since she joined her own royal family, and sets out to restore Elena to her human form and help her return to Avalor. While Elena is the rightful heir to the throne, she is only 16 years old, so she will rule Avalor with the help of a Grand Council comprised of her Grandfather Tito, Grandmother Cici, and Royal Advisor, Duke Esteban.
With some magical friends by her side, including wizard-in-training Mateo and a magical flying creature named Skylar, Princess Elena’s further adventures will lead her to understand that her new role requires thoughtfulness, resilience, and compassion. Elena of Avalor stories will be guided by an established curriculum that focuses on multiple areas of child development (physical, emotional, social, and cognitive), thinking and creative skills, and moral and ethical development.
The role of 16-year-old Princess Elena will be voiced by Aimee Carrero (ABC Family’s Young & Hungry). The series will be presented in 25 languages on Disney Junior channels and daily programming blocks for kids ages 2 to 7 on Disney Channels in 154 countries worldwide.
