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Published Jun 18, 2026Updated Jun 231
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Disney to Adapt 'Warrior Cats' Book Series as Animated Series for 2028
Disney has acquired the animated adaptation rights to the popular 'Warrior Cats' book franchise, planning a series for 2028 on Disney+ and Disney Channel. The books have sold over 90 million copies, and the series will be showrun by AC Bradley and directed by Rodrigo Blaas.
Quick Facts
- Acquisition of animated adaptation rights
- Creation and showrunning of series
- Directing by Rodrigo Blaas
- Release on Disney+ and Disney Channel
- Rebrand of Disney Kids & Family
Disney has acquired the animated adaptation rights to Coolabi's global phenomenon "Warrior Cats," based on Erin Hunter's popular book series about the adventures and rivalries of feral cat clans. The series is set to premiere in 2028 on Disney+ and The Disney Channel.
The project is created and showrun by AC Bradley, with Emmy-winning director Rodrigo Blaas ("Finding Nemo") attached to direct. Production involves El Guiri Studios, and the adaptation from Original Force will also be released on China's Tencent Video. The series joins Disney's kids programming slate alongside hits like "Bluey" and "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+."
The "Warrior Cats" books, written by a team under the pseudonym Erin Hunter, have sold over 90 million copies worldwide and been translated into 38 languages. Disney notes that the franchise generates 50 million monthly views across user-generated content on YouTube and nearly 3 billion views on TikTok, while a Roblox game has been played more than 735 million times.
“We’re always seeking out fresh, imaginative storytelling that resonates with families around the world,” said Ayo Davis, president of 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.”
Coolabi CEO Will Harrison added: “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.” Coolabi chairman Neil Court previously told Deadline that the property "insulates the company from the vagaries of what’s happening with the kids television business now, which is so precarious."
The announcement comes ahead of the Annecy International Animation Film Festival and follows Disney's rebranding from Disney Branded Television to Disney Kids & Family under Davis. The studio also recently revealed an animated fantasy series from former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama's Higher Ground production company.
Topics
Why This Matters
This adaptation signals Disney's continued investment in high-fantasy, fan-driven IP with massive digital engagement (50M monthly YouTube views, 735M+ Roblox plays). For readers tracking kids' entertainment and transmedia strategies, it highlights how book series with strong online communities are becoming prime acquisition targets. The show's exclusive debut on Disney+ and Disney Channel also underscores the streaming platform's central role in Disney's family content strategy.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 18, 2026
WireDisney announces acquisition of Warrior Cats animated adaptation
Jan 1, 2028
WireWarrior Cats animated series premieres on Disney+ and Disney Channel