by Ricky Church
Disney has acquired the franchiseWarriors, also known asWarrior Cats, to develop the TV animated series adaptation Warrior Cats.
Written by Erin Hunter, a pen name used for the various writers throughout the series, Warrior Catsfollows several clans of feral cats who reside in a forest with each clan gaining a special ability unique to the area they live in. TheTV series will adapt the first series of books ‘The Prophecies Begins’, which follows a housecat name Fireheart who joins the ThunderClan and has to save the rest of the clans and forest from a corrupt leader.
Warrior Catswas first published in 2003 and is still ongoing with several series, mostly consisting of six books each, beginning a new story arc in the franchise. It has become a very popular series for young readers with over 90 million copies sold worldwide and some books having been adapted into graphic novels and magna.
The TV series is being developed by A.C. Bradley (Marvel’s What If?), who will serve as showrunner, with Rodrigo Blaas (Finding Nemo) directing from animation studio Original Force. Coolabi Group and Disney Kids & Family will air the series for Disney+ and the Disney Channel for 2028.
“We’re always seeking out fresh, imaginative storytelling that resonates with families around the world,” said Ayo Davis, president of Disney Kids & Family. “Warrior Catshas 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.”
“Following our development deal with Tencent Video in 2024, we have been working hard to find the perfect home for Warrior Cats,” said Allison Watkins, Coolabi’s Executive Vice President. “We couldn’t be more thrilled that Disney has come on board the project, and we look forward to delivering a truly exciting new series to Warrior Cats fans across the globe. 2026 has already seen the successful launch of Warrior Catstoys at retail in the U.S., and we anticipate a whirlwind year ahead for the brand.”
“We are so grateful to Allison and former CEO Jeremy Banks for brokering such a key deal with Disney on behalf of Coolabi and Tencent Video. 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,” said Coolabi’s CEO Will Harrison.
Warrior Catswill premiere in 2028.
