'Kingdom Hearts' anime series announced at D23

August 15, 2026 - 07:31

Disney has confirmed that the beloved video game franchise Kingdom Hearts is getting its own anime series, with the announcement made during the D23 Disney Entertainment Showcase on Friday. The show will air on Disney Channel and stream on Disney+, bringing the crossover universe to a new format.

The series will follow the established lore of the games, which blend Disney characters and worlds with original characters created by Square Enix. Fans can expect to see Sora, Donald, and Goofy return as they travel across various Disney-themed realms, battling the Heartless and uncovering the mysteries of the Keyblade. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the announcement suggests the anime will adapt the original storyline rather than retell the events of the first game directly.

This is not the first time Kingdom Hearts has been adapted for another medium, but it marks the first full-length animated series for the franchise. The project is a collaborative effort between Disney and Square Enix, with production handled by an anime studio that has not yet been named. No release window has been announced, but the project is currently in early development.

The D23 reveal was met with loud applause from the audience, many of whom have waited years for a proper animated take on the series. Given the franchise's long history of intricate storytelling and emotional depth, the anime will need to balance fan expectations with accessibility for newcomers. Disney has promised more details in the coming months, including casting and a first look at the animation style.