Disney has officially greenlit the first-ever original Kingdom Hearts TV series, with the anime set to stream on Disney+ and air on Disney Channel. Announced at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event on August 14, 2026, the project is being developed in partnership with Kingdom Hearts creator Tetsuya Nomura and the creative team at Square Enix.
The project, currently titled Kingdom Hearts (working title), will not simply retell the events of the existing games. Disney describes it as a new story designed to expand the franchise’s universe while bringing its familiar characters to a new audience.
Tetsuya Nomura Will Help Shape the New Kingdom Hearts Story
Nomura’s involvement is particularly significant for longtime fans, as the creator has been central to the franchise since the original Kingdom Hearts launched in 2002. Disney says the creative team will work closely with Nomura to ensure the series remains recognizably connected to the games.
“Kingdom Hearts has captivated gamers everywhere with its unique blend of adventure and imagination,”
said Ayo Davis, president of Disney Kids & Family. She added that working with Nomura will make the new series “unmistakably Kingdom Hearts” while offering fans another way to experience the world.
Disney has not yet announced a release date, episode count, voice cast, or detailed story information for the anime. The project joins an expanding lineup of original animated programming planned for Disney+, including Messi and the Giants, Warrior Cats, and Journey.
The announcement also gives Kingdom Hearts a major opportunity to expand beyond gaming. With Nomura and Square Enix involved, fans will now be watching closely for the first footage and additional details about how the anime’s new story connects to the wider franchise.
