How the Proud Family Honors Autism Acceptance Month

By Andie Hagemann

The Disney+ Original series The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder continues to tell entertaining and hilarious stories, while highlighting culturally specific experiences of the Black community and addressing universal topics. Now in its second season, the series spotlights the topic of autism through the character BeBe (voiced by Aiden Dodson).

In the recent episode “BeBe,” the character repeatedly goes missing only to wind up in inexplicable places. Baffled by his actions, Trudy (voiced by Paula Jai Parker), Oscar (voiced by Tommy Davidson), and Penny (voiced by Kyla Pratt) seek medical attention, and in the process discover BeBe is autism. Actor and autism activist Holly Robinson Peete lends her voice to the character Dr. Lord, who operates a school for neurodivergent children and evaluates BeBe.

In honor of Autism Acceptance Month, Disney Branded Television hosted a virtual screening and Q&A with series creatives Bruce W. Smith and Ralph Farquhar; guest star Peete; and moderated by RespectAbility consultant Diane J. Wright. Dodson, who like his character is also autistic, later joined the conversation, donning a T-shirt reading “Team BeBe” and emblazoned with the character’s image.

When developing The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder, Smith and Farquhar wanted to continue the progress of the original series with trailblazing storylines and characters. Those conversations led to discussions about the Proud family’s youngest members BeBe and CeCe (voiced by Bresha Webb) and how to shape the now-slightly-older characters. “For some unexplained reason, we put a cape on BeBe and we started to examine him internally,” said Smith.

And while prepping for Season 2, Meredith Roberts, executive vice president, TV Animated, Disney Branded Television, requested an episode center around autism. “We didn’t want to do a special episode [on autism] and then never visit [it] again or explore the character beyond that episode,” recalled Farquhar. “We thought this would be a perfect trait to imbue his character with and then examine it in a holistic way—a total family way, not just the BeBe character.”

Farquhar and Smith enlisted the expertise of Peete, whose son R.J. was diagnosed with autism in 2000, to ensure the autism diagnosis experience—especially the within the Black community—is depicted authentically. Peete relished the opportunity to be a part of her family’s favorite show, both behind the scenes and voicing a character.

“When my son was diagnosed, there was zero representation of autism and neurodivergence on television, let alone from the African American point of view,” Peete said. “The viral clip of Dr. Lord diagnosing BeBe is one of the most gratifying things I have ever been part of. I didn’t write it, but it was a reimagination what I wish that developmental pediatrician had said on that day 23 years ago.” Peete also shared with Bruce that her son was also quite fond of capes, just like BeBe.

In addition to the inclusion of Peete and Dodson, Smith shared that one of the main story artists for The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder is autistic and requested to work on the scene where BeBe is diagnosed. “The artist wanted to take on that specific section and he told me after he had finished it, he never thought his talents would meet that specific subject matter,” Smith said.

The episode also marks the first time that audiences see Oscar bond with BeBe. “It took this journey with them,” said Smith. “This is Oscar’s only son and I think all those emotions were hitting him at that moment.”

Shared Peete, “That representation is so powerful because Black dads can struggle with [denial and acceptance]—and moms, too. Oscar is very stubborn and does not accept a whole lot; this is something that he had to really shift his heart to understand what he has moving forward. It was an amazing scene to see unfold before our eyes.”

Added Wright, “Another benefit that you may or may not have realized in the adult [autistic] community [is that] Black autistic men are the group that has the most to risk by being ‘out,’ and knowing who they are and recognizing themselves. So, showing a boy and a father bonding and discussing that, it paves the way for openness about growing into a Black autistic man.”

Both Farquhar and Smith are still overwhelmed with the positive reception from viewers long after the episode’s debut. “I hope to explore the BeBe character more,” Farquhar continued. “People come up to us all the time and say, ‘I want to tell you how much we love the BeBe episode,’ and how much they appreciate it.”

Season 1 and 2 of The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder are available to stream on Disney+.

Meet the Characters of Peter Pan & Wendy

By Jessica Benda

Peter Pan has whisked audiences through the nursery window before, but they’ll meet his newest incarnation in the upcoming Disney+ event movie, Peter Pan & Wendy.

The reimagined live-action tale follows 13-year-old Wendy, who declares she doesn’t want to leave home nor become an adult. When Peter Pan hears her plea, he ushers her and her brothers off to the magical world of Never Land. Thus begins a swashbuckling new adventure, which debuts on the streaming service on Friday, April 28.

While the story of Wendy and Peter Pan has persisted since J. M. Barrie’s enchanting 1904 stage play, we’ve yet to meet these particular versions of his characters... Find out a bit more about them below!

In the Darling nursery, Peter Pan hovers just above a chair in front of the open window. He points his sword with a smile.

Peter Pan (Alexander Molony)
The boy who doesn’t want to grow up is just as childish as in past renditions, but he’s a bit more carefree. Peter is constantly looking for new friends to join him on his adventures, so he jumps at the opportunity to explore with Wendy. While he may seem lighthearted, he’s incredibly serious about not growing up. His physical body may stay young, but Peter might find that he needs to do some maturing internally.

“Peter has learned that he can’t do everything by himself and that he needs his friends,” says co-screenwriter/executive producer Tony Halbrooks. “He’s gone from ‘I’m the kid who doesn’t need anybody’ to the kid who says, ‘I need people and Tinker Bell is important to me. Wendy and all the Lost Boys are important to me. And if you guys want to go home, you’re my friends, I’ll help you go home and grow.’”

Wendy Darling (Ever Anderson)
Fierce, passionate, and outspoken, growing up is the last thing Wendy Darling wants. While Peter Pan is often the titular character, Wendy is this story’s lead. Her plea to remain a child is the catalyst for their epic adventure. “Wendy, more often than not, is the one who drives the action, she’s the one who solves problems. Peter is a lot of fun, but he’s also someone who gets our heroes into trouble just as much as he gets them out of trouble,” says executive producer Adam Borba.

“In essence, Peter Pan has always been Wendy’s story,” adds producer Jim Whitaker. “It’s just that this version finally brings her story to the forefront. It is more focused on who and what Peter Pan is through Wendy’s eyes.”

On his ship, Captain Hook stands and appears worried as his crew is blurry in the background. In place of his right hand is a rusting hook, and his graying hair is topped with a black pirate hat. He wears a red coat with gold adornments.

Captain Hook (Jude Law)
Terrifying as ever, Captain Hook sails the water of Never Land, dodging a certain crocodile and always up to fight his sworn enemy: Peter Pan. He and Peter are two sides of the same coin, locked into a deep feud since they journeyed to Never Land together as kids. While he’s still the fierce pirate of legend, Hook might just have a hurt child within—and it’s something the film also explores. But like all nuanced villains, Hook sees himself as the hero. More than that, he believes he’s been wronged—and he might be right about that.

“It was very much at the heart of what made this Hook interesting and desirable to play,” says Law of Hook’s backstory. “It explains their rivalry and why Hook and the pirates are sort of stuck in Never Land. It also just gives good background and good insight into his personality. And for me as an actor, it gave me a lot more to play with than just a one-sided bad guy who hates everyone.”

John Darling (Joshua Pickering)
Ten-year-old John Darling begs to join his older sister Wendy on her journey to Never Land. Clad in a white nightshirt with his father’s hat and umbrella in hand, he is the most cautious of the Darling children. “John is very protective of his sister and little brother,” says Pickering. “His instincts are telling him that maybe this isn’t such a good idea, that maybe Peter Pan can’t be trusted.”

Michael Darling (Jacobi Jupe)
At just 8 years old, Michael is enamored by the thought of Never Land. The youngest of the Darling children is eager to embark on his first big adventure—though only while clutching his teddy, Mr. Bear!

A still of the enchanting Tinker Bell, who blows pixie dust out of her palms. She wears a whimsical green dress, and her hair is swept above her head. Her dainty wings flutter.

Tinker Bell (Yara Shahidi)
The famous fairy is much more than Peter Pan’s sidekick—and she proves it in Peter Pan & Wendy. Tinker Bell speaks in a fairy language only Peter can understand, and she’s careful with her magic fairy dust that allows others to fly.

“I appreciated that (director David Lowery) wanted to maintain the classic fairytale elements but update it so that all the characters get the representation they deserve,” says Shahidi. “It was so fun to take on Tinker Bell. I think once I got through the nerves of taking on such an iconic character, we had the best time.”

In the forest, Tiger Lily stands beside a white horse, guiding its reins as she looks off-screen. She wears Indigenous clothing and beading.

Tiger Lily (Alyssa Wapanatâhk)
Amid the chaos of Peter Pan, Hook, and the Lost Boys, Tiger Lily is a warrior who’s calm, collected, and mature. Not only is Tiger Lily a guiding star for Wendy throughout the story, but she also has a cherished familial relationship with Peter Pan. As his honorary older sister, she and Peter have been looking out for each other for years, and she comes to his rescue when he needs it.

“Tiger Lily is a strong and powerful woman who takes matters into her own hands,” explains Wapanatâhk (Bigstone Cree Nation). “She’s a fearless warrior whenever she needs to be. She can overcome anything. And she’s portrayed in a good way. She’s portrayed the way she should be, and that means everything to me.”

Mr. Darling (Alan Tudyk)
Shrewd and single-minded, Mr. Darling believes in a no-nonsense approach when it comes to raising his children, which Wendy often feels the brunt of. Mr. Darling feels Wendy is too old to be playing with her younger brothers and should focus on becoming a proper and poised young woman.

Mrs. Darling (Molly Parker)
Like her husband, Mrs. Darling wants what is best for her children, albeit with a kinder approach. A loving wife and mother, she encourages Wendy to be more responsible and a better role model to her younger brothers. While she empathizes with her daughter’s qualms about leaving home, she believes it’s the right place for her.

Smee (Jim Gaffigan)
Smee, Captain Hook’s trusted first mate, can always be counted on for a cup of tea. Though he’s somewhat of a father figure to Hook, he’s still clueless—prodding the creatives to question why Hook kept him as his second-in-command. “We created a backstory for them, whereby he saved him as a lad, and that’s why they ended up in this partnership,” says Gaffigan. “Hook is this petulant teenager, and Smee is the parent trying to dampen Hook’s enthusiasm for fighting Pan.”

RECIPE: Celebrate Earth Month with Plant-based Lavender Donuts

A Recipe from the Delicious Disney Vault
Plant-based Lavender Donuts at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Shhhh, don’t tell anyone that these donuts served at the California Grill are vegan! The stylish California Grill ushered in a new era for Disney dining when it debuted high atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World Resort in 1995 with a dazzling onstage kitchen and a bird’s-eye view of the Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks displays. Now this fan-favorite dessert is featured in Delicious Disney: Walt Disney World—Recipes & Stories from The Most Magical Place on Earth Series by Pam Brandon, Marcy Carriker Smothers & The Disney Chefs.

MAKES 24–36 DONUTS

Ingredients:

LAVENDER SUGAR

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender

DONUTS

  • ¾ cup lukewarm water
  • 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup liquid from canned chickpeas
  • 5 teaspoons ground flaxseed
  • 1¼ cups coconut milk
  • ½ cup coconut oil
  • 6⅔ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup sugar, plus more for topping
  • 1 teaspoon coarse salt
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Steps:

FOR LAVENDER SUGAR

  1. Toss sugar and dried culinary lavender in medium bowl. Cover and let rest for several hours or overnight.
  2. Sift out lavender with a fine-mesh strainer. Set aside.

FOR DONUTS

  1. Combine water and yeast in bowl of electric mixer fitted with dough hook. Rest for 5 minutes until yeast is frothy.
  2. Whisk chickpea liquid and ground flaxseed in medium bowl. Add to water and yeast.
  3. Add coconut milk, coconut oil, flour, sugar, and salt to mixing bowl. Mix on low speed until soft dough ball forms. Increase to medium-high speed and knead for 5 minutes.
  4. Transfer dough to large bowl coated with nonstick cooking spray. Cover with plastic wrap and let dough rise at room temperature for 90 minutes or until doubled in size.
  5. Place parchment paper on two baking pans and spray with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
  6. Place dough on large board covered with flour, roll to ¼-inch thickness, and cut with desired size donut cutter. Place cut donuts on prepared baking pans. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 15 minutes or until doubled in size.

Always use caution when handling sharp objects and hot contents.
Please supervise children who are helping or nearby.
This recipe has been converted from a larger quantity in the restaurant kitchens.
The flavor profile may vary from the restaurant’s version.

All the Ways to Fly to Never Land on Disney+

By Jessica Benda

The sprawling island of Never Land brims with mischievous mermaids, fearsome pirates, and twinkling fairies. With so much to explore, it’s no wonder we want to keep going back! While the first route to Never Land is thrilling—follow the second star to the right and straight on ’til morning—the second may be more manageable. Disney+ whisks viewers off to Never Land with just the touch of a button.

The newest flight to Never Land is through Peter Pan & Wendy, which lands on the streaming service on Friday, April 28. The forever-young Peter Pan (Alexander Molony) whisks Wendy Darling (Ever Anderson) off on a thrilling journey, and he brings her brothers—and viewers—along for the ride!

In celebration of the upcoming Disney+ Original, we’ve compiled all the ways to get to Never Land on Disney+.

In the animated film Peter Pan, Peter leads the young Wendy, John, and Michael through the night sky over London. Peter wears green clothes with the tiny fairy Tinker Bell at his side. The moon is bright and full in the starry and semi-cloudy sky.

Peter Pan (1953)
Walt Disney Animation Studios first took viewers to Never Land in 1953 through the animated film Peter Pan, based on the characters created by playwright and novelist J. M. Barrie. The mischievous and good-natured Peter flies through the window of a London nursery, where he meets siblings Wendy, John, and Michael. With faith, trust, and pixie dust, Peter sweeps them off to Never Land for an unforgettable adventure.

Return to Never Land (2002)
Unlike her mother, Wendy, young Jane doesn’t fly to Never Land—she’s kidnapped. In the animated film Return to Never Land, Captain Hook and his pirates capture Jane from war-torn London after mistaking her for Wendy. She’s hauled aboard the Jolly Roger in an effort to lure out Peter Pan, who successfully rescues Jane but quickly finds that the real trouble is Jane’s stubborn nature: She refuses to believe in Never Land even as she stands on its soil.

In the animated Tinker Bell movie, Tink sits alone on the sand and fiddles with a small screw. A small rusting bell rests beside her. She wears her traditional short green dress, and her blond hair is pulled into a bun atop her head.

Tinker Bell (2008)
In the first film of the Tinker Bell series, viewers journey to one of the most magical parts of Never Land: Pixie Hollow. The home of the fairies abounds with fantastical features, such as bubbling brooks and sunflower meadows. Tink is often known for her short temper, but her movie shows her determination, kindness, and hard-working spirit as she struggles with her identity as a tinker-talent.

Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure (2009)
The sequel to Tinker Bell sees our favorite fairy venturing out of Pixie Hollow and deeper into Never Land. A blue harvest moon is set to rise and rejuvenate the Pixie Dust Tree, as long as the light falls through a magical moonstone. When Tink accidentally breaks the stone just before the harvest moon, she realizes her temper has jeopardized all of Pixie Hollow. Climbing into a balloon, she sets off across the sea to find a legendary magic mirror to make things right.

Tinker Bell and the Great Fairy Rescue (2010)
Technically, this is the only Tinker Bell film that won’t take you to Never Land. Instead, Tink and her friends spend their summer on the equally beautiful mainland. When Tink gets trapped in a makeshift fairy house, she realizes it belongs to Lizzy, a young girl with a fierce love of fairies. After seeing Lizzie’s enthusiasm, Tink takes it upon herself to teach her all she needs to know about her species.

In the animated Jake and the Never Land Pirates series, Jake and his friend Cubby play baseball on the shore of a beach. They both wear mitts and toss the ball between them under Never Land’s blue sky.

Jake and the Never Land Pirates (2011–2016)
There’s more than one pirate crew on Never Land! In Jake and the Never Land Pirates, Captain Hook is challenged by his rival captain, Jake, as well as his partners-in-crime. The Disney Junior series follows Jake on his adventures on the shores and seas of Never Land, where he sails aboard his living pirate ship, Bucky.

In the animated film Secret of the Wings, Tinker Bell and her sister Periwinkle face each other as they meet for the first time. They stand in an icy cavern in the Winter Woods and smile at each other. Periwinkle has short white hair that sweeps up toward the sky, and she wears a baby blue shirt and capri pants. Tinker Bell wears her traditional short green dress with matching leggings and warm boots. They have matching wings.

Secret of the Wings (2012)
In Pixie Hollow, it’s forbidden to venture past the border into the Winter Woods. Therefore, it’s no surprise that Tinker Bell does it anyway. It is a surprise when she discovers she has a sister just beyond the border! Periwinkle, a frost-talent fairy, was born of the same laugh as Tinker Bell, but they’re kept apart from each other’s worlds. Still, after spending a day with her sister, Tink realizes she can’t let her go.

The Pirate Fairy (2014)
Journey to Skull Rock in The Pirate Fairy, which even includes a young Captain Hook! Zarina, a dust-keeper fairy, steals Pixie Hollow’s Blue Pixie Dust and joins forces with Never Land’s pirates. Tink and her friends hurry to retrieve the dust, but their talents are switched along the way! As they race against time, only Tink and her friends can stop Zarina and save Pixie Hollow.

Tinker Bell and the Legend of the NeverBeast (2014)
In this 2014 film, the Tinker Bell series shifts the spotlight to her good friend Fawn, an animal-talent with a knack for adventure. She meets the NeverBeast, a massive legendary creature, and quickly builds a close bond. When other fairies launch a hunt for the supposedly dangerous NeverBeast, Fawn recruits her friends to rescue him.

Stream Peter Pan & Wendy Soon on Disney+

Icons of Disney Storytelling: Disney Legend Robin Roberts

By Zach Johnson

In this special series of intimate interviews, D23.com speaks with the most talented, prolific, and articulate storytellers from across The Walt Disney Company.

Disney Legend Robin Roberts has made a living telling stories—her own and others’.

Under her leadership as co-anchor of Good Morning America, the ABC News broadcast has won six Emmy®Awards for Outstanding Morning Program. Roberts joined the GMA family as a contributor in 1995 and was named co-anchor in 2005. In doing so, Roberts made TV history, as she and fellow Disney Legend Diane Sawyer became the first team of women to ever anchor a major network’s morning broadcast. Roberts had previously broken another barrier, in 1990, when she joined ESPN as the network’s first Black female sports journalist. During her 15-year stint, she contributed to NFL PrimeTime and also hosted SportsCenter and In the Game with Robin Roberts.

She launched Rock’n Robin Productions, an independent production company that creates original broadcast and digital programming, in 2014. Her latest project, the Disney+ Original Turning the Tables with Robin Roberts, is now in its second season.

Now, Roberts joins D23: The Official Disney Fan Club for a wide-ranging Q&A...

Robin Roberts smiles as she sits at the “Good Morning America” anchor desk and looks to her right. She is wearing a blue, long-sleeved dress and a black beaded necklace. In front of her are downturned eyeglasses, a downturned iPhone, notepads and a pen, and a blue coffee mug with the yellow “Good Morning America” logo on it.

D23: What makes Disney the perfect home for a storyteller such as yourself?
Robin Roberts (RR): Zach, I’m so happy you asked me that. I have been with The Walt Disney Company since 1990, starting at ESPN, then ABC Sports, then Good Morning America, now at Disney+—various things. It goes back to something I’ve said before, whenever people ask me how I’m able to get so much out of people. I say, “Trust.” That’s Disney. That’s why people come to us. And I say it like that because they know they’re going to be entertained— that’s a given—but they’re also going to be enlightened and encouraged to be their best selves through the stories we tell. At the end of the day, we’re storytellers. We have great stories to tell and to share. I’m so grateful that people come to us, like on Turning the Tables, and say, “Help me share my story.” There is no better place to do that than here at The Walt Disney Company.

Robin Roberts smiles while holding onto the railing of a boat. She is on assignment in New Zealand and is wearing a black raincoat, a white T-shirt, and jeans.

D23: How has Disney helped you to touch the hearts of people around the world in unexpected ways?
RR: Oh, that’s another good question! And around the world, you’re right about that. Internationally, we’re universal. We are. I mean, there are very few platforms or companies that are universally embraced and understood and trusted. And I think because of that, everybody from various countries around the world feels a bit of ownership with Disney. They feel it’s theirs. It’s a bond that is very hard to find. And I’m just glad that we found the magic. I don’t know how we did it, but we found it!

Robin Roberts wears a vibrant black, gray, orange, purple, and white printed top and blue pants. She sits in a gray chair that has a pink blanket draped over the back. In front of her are two gold tables: one with flowers, the other with a tea tray. Marsai Martin and Sheryl Lee Ralph sit across from her with their backs to the camera.

D23: How has Disney helped you achieve your dreams—and dream new ones?
RR: I’m telling you, there are very few places you can go [to make your dreams come true]. I don’t have to leave, because everything I want to do, I can find right here. With Turning the Tables, I didn’t have to go somewhere else to start a talk show, a dynamic conversation with women. It was The Walt Disney Company that said, “Hey, with Disney+, you can do it right here at home.” I’m really grateful—not just for me, but for others. They let us spread our wings without having to fly the coop. Oh, I like that: We spread our wings, but we don’t fly the coop. I’ve got to register that! That was pretty doggone good! But I mean that. We’ve been allowed to spread our wings, but we don’t fly the coop because we know whatever it is we want to do, we can find a home for it—a home for it right where we are—and be embraced. I’m just grateful. I’m at a place where I’m not tolerated, I’m celebrated. That’s a big difference here at Disney.

Get Early Access to Disney Speedstorm and Get Racing Now!

Disney Speedstorm, the hero-based racing game featuring some of your favorite Disney and Pixar characters, is available to play today on PC and console in Early Access! Purchase a Founder’s Pack to be one of the first to hit the tracks with exciting exclusives.

And, as a special treat just for D23 members, we are excited to announce that players in Early Access will be able to race as Racer Steamboat Mickey in Disney Speedstorm this summer!

Unlock and collect Disney and Pixar racers, each with their own unique skill, to play in a way that suits your racing style. How will you drift into first place? Will you summon a flock of birds to get a speed boost as Belle, throw a well-timed tantrum as Donald Duck to knock competitors aside, or collect the screams of your opponents to get an acceleration boost as Randall? All is fair play on the tracks.

Speaking of racing style – we’ve got you covered. Customize your karts, racers, and avatar with styles inspired by the iconic characters and their worlds. See below for some scream-worthy racing suit styles for the Monsters, Inc. racers. Fans might just spot a few ‘easter eggs’ on those suits and badges!

Race your way through heart pounding circuits – riding the rails, sailing over jumps, and speeding your way to victory. Explore themed environments, like “Mount Olympus” inspired by Hercules, or “A Pirate’s Life” inspired by Pirates of the Caribbean. Check out the awe-inspiring concept art for these tracks!

Need even more ways to race? Play with up to three additional friends with local couch co-op or prove your skills on the competitive multiplayer game modes.

Many more new Disney and Pixar racers, karts, and tracks will unlock regularly with each new racing Season. Who will join the race next? You might have caught a glimpse in the Founder’s Pack trailer for upcoming additions – check the link below to check it out!

But enough looking, it’s time to get behind the wheel. Choose your Founder’s Pack to grab your exclusives, and be one of the first to hit the tracks in Disney Speedstorm today!

Everything New You Can Stream on Disney+ in May 2023

By Zach Johnson

From global superstars to intergalactic adventures, Disney+ has something for everyone in May. Coming up first on Wednesday, May 3, is the four-part series Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All, which offers a definitive and searingly honest view into Ed Sheeran’s private life as he explores the universal themes that inspire his music. Watch him tackle various experiences and reflect upon the world, himself, and his new music.

Celebrate Star Wars Day on Thursday, May 4, with the premiere of Star Wars: Visions (Volume 2), featuring nine shorts from nine studios. Employing the most captivating animation styles from a variety of countries and cultures, the second volume offers a dynamic new perspective on the storied mythos of Star Wars. That same day, stream Season of 1 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. Set 200 years before The Phantom Menace, during the High Republic era, the animated series follows Jedi younglings Kai, Lys, and Nubs as they are sent by Master Yoda to train at a Jedi temple on the beautiful world of Tenoo under the tutelage of Master Zia. Together, they will blast off on adventures across Tenoo and throughout the galaxy aboard the Crimson Firehawk with ace pilot Nash and her droid, RJ-83! They’ll help those in need, clash with villainous pirates, discover exotic creatures, and learn what it takes to be a good friend.

On Friday, May 5, live the Entrelazados Live! Experience. The special includes the original songs “Donde Voy” and “Convénceme,” ‘90s covers, and so much more! A few days later, on Wednesday, May 10, The Muppets Mayhem will premiere with all episodes. The comedy series follows The Electric Mayhem Band—Dr. Teeth on vocals and keyboards, Animal on drums, Floyd Pepper on vocals and bass, Janice on vocals and lead guitar, Zoot on saxophone, and Lips on trumpet—on an epic, music-filled journey to record their first-ever studio album. With the help of a driven young music executive, Nora (Lily Singh), watch the old-school Muppet band comes face-to-face with the current day music scene as they try to finally record their first studio album.

On Friday, May 12, Disney’s Crater will crash land on Disney+. The movie tells the story of Caleb Channing (Isaiah Russell-Bailey), who was raised on a lunar mining colony and is about to be permanently relocated to an idyllic faraway planet following the death of his father (Scott Mescudi). To fulfill his father’s last wish before he leaves the colony, Caleb and his three best friends, Dylan (Billy Barratt), Borney (Orson Hong), and Marcus (Thomas Boyce)—along with a new arrival from Earth, Addison (Mckenna Grace)—decide to hijack a rover for one final adventure on a journey to explore a mysterious crater.

On Wednesday, May 24, stream all episodes of the Disney+ Original series American Born Chinese. Based on Gene Luen Yang’s graphic novel that chronicles the trials and tribulations of a regular American teenager whose life is forever changed when he befriends the son of a mythological god, the series tells the story of a young man’s battle for his own identity... told through family, comedy, and action-packed Kung-Fu! The series stars Ben Wang as Jin Wang, Daniel Wu as Sun Wukong “The Monkey King,” and two Oscar® winners: Ke Huy Quan as Freddy Wong and Michelle Yeoh as Guanyin. That same day, Season 2 of Chip ‘n’ Dale: Park Life will debut on Disney+. In their big city park, Chip and Dale are as eager as ever to increase their acorn stash. But their tumultuous dynamic makes it hard for things to ever go right. Along with Pluto, Donald Duck, and more Disney characters, the chipmunks take on a new chunk of trouble!

All the titles coming to Disney+ in May are listed below:

Miep (Bel Powley) and Tess (Eleanor Tomlinson) attend a party in A Small Light.

Tuesday, May 2
A Small Light (2 Episodes)

Ed Sheeran stands in a grassy field in a still from Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All.

Wednesday, May 3
Ed Sheeran: The Sum of It All (Premiere) (All Episodes)
Eureka! (Season 1, 6 Episodes)

In a still from Star Wars: Visions, Julan Van Reeple reclines on a sculpture and is surrounded by creatures.

Thursday, May 4
Star Wars: Visions (Volume 2 Premiere) (All Episodes)
Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures (Season 1 Premiere) (Episodes 1–7)

In a still from Charles: In His Own Words, Prince William (left), Prince Charles (center), and Prince Harry (right) sit together during a private holiday at a ski resort in Klosters, Switzerland, in April 2000.

Friday, May 5
Charles: In His Own Words
Entrelazados Live! (Premiere)

Tuesday, May 9
A Small Light (Season 1, 2 Episodes)

In a still from In a still from The Muppets Mayhem, Nora appears shocked as Animal hangs upside down., Nora appears shocked as Animal hangs upside down.

Wednesday, May 10
Life Below Zero (Season 20)
The Muppets Mayhem (Premiere) (All Episodes)
Secrets of the Zoo: Tampa (Season 4)

In a still from Crater, Caleb (Isaiah Russell-Bailey), Marcus (Thomas Boyce), Addison (Mckenna Grace), and Borney (Orson Hong) appear afraid as they walk through an industrial area.

Friday, May 12
Crater (Premiere)

Tuesday, May 16
A Small Light (Season 1, 2 Episodes)

Wednesday, May 17
Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania
Critter Fixers: Country Vets (Season 5)
Saturdays (Season 1, 4 Episodes)

Tuesday, May 23
A Small Light (Season 1, 2 Episodes)

In a still from American Born Chinese, Wei-Chun (Jim Liu) and Guanyin (Michelle Yeoh) stand in front of lockers.

Wednesday, May 24
American Born Chinese (Premiere) (All Episodes)
Chip ‘n’ Dale: Park Life (Season 2 Premiere) (Episodes 1–6)
Kiff (Season 1, 4 Episodes)
Spidey and his Amazing Friends (Season 2, 5 Episodes)

Friday, May 26
Wild Life

Wednesday, May 31
Firebuds (Season 1, 6 Episodes)

DOWNLOADABLE: Celebrate Earth Month with a Disney100 Coloring Page

By Analise Warner

Happy Earth Month! Earn your wilderness badge by dashing through forest ferns, diving into new waters, or cruising by cacti with familiar friends Baloo, Flounder, and Bent-Tail Junior! Enjoy some fresh air and fresh art with an exclusive printable page titled “The World Around Us” from Disney Publishing’s new Art of Coloring: Disney 100 Years of Wonder book. Explore your creativity with this must-have adult coloring book that offers a fun and familiar look at everything Disney—past, present, and future. Download the inspiring coloring page below and remember: “The bare necessities are Mother Nature’s recipes that bring the bare necessities of life!” To learn more about the company’s efforts to support a healthier planet, visit DisneyPlanetPossible.com.

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Development art by Shane Enoch for the gallery poster from Disney100: The Exhibition, 2023. From Art of Coloring: Disney 100 Years of Wonder: 100 Images to Inspire Creativity by the Staff of the Walt Disney Archives (Disney Editions, 2023).

5 Fantastic Things to Watch This Week

By Andie Hagemann

This week, binge a beloved sitcom and watch all-new episodes of a hit series. On Monday, all episodes of New Girl launch on Hulu. The Season 2 finale of Abbott Elementary airs Wednesday on ABC, and that same day, watch the first two episodes of Algiers, America on Hulu. On Thursday, Grey’s Anatomy airs a new episode on ABC, and Freeform debuts a brand-new episode of Good Trouble.

In a scene from New Girl, actor Zooey Deschanel sits on a chair opposite actors Jake Johnson, Max Greenfield, and Damon Wayans Jr., who sit on a couch.

New Girl—Monday, April 17, on Hulu
Who’s that girl? It’s Jess! The hilarious hit series “moves in” on the streamer beginning today. After a bad break-up, Jess Day (Zooey Deschanel) is in desperate need of a new place to live. An online search leads her to a great loft… and three single guys she’s never met before: Nick (Jake Johnson), Schmidt (Max Greenfield), and Winston (Lamorne Morris). Rounding out the madcap group is Jess’ childhood best friend Cece (Hannah Simone). The fivesome realize they need each other more than they thought they would and end up forming a charmingly dysfunctional—or strangely functional—family.

In a scene from Abbott Elementary, actors Tyler James Williams and Chris Perfetti stand in a NASA exhibit at the Franklin Institute.

Abbott Elementary—Wednesday, April 19, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on ABC
The Season 2 finale follows Abbott Elementary’s highly anticipated field trip to the Franklin Institute. Of course, the venture is not without some hilarious hijinks. Ava (Janelle James) teaches the students about aliens, leading to chaos when someone spots an extraterrestrial in the museum. Meanwhile, Gregory (Tyler James Williams) is eager to spend time with a reluctant Janine (Quinta Brunson), who is avoiding him. Episodes are available to stream the next day on Hulu.

The key art from Algiers, America depicts a football player squatting on a field holding a football.

Algiers, America—Wednesday, April 19, on Hulu
This Hulu Original docuseries from Andscape—intended only for mature audiences—tells the story of a remarkable high school football coach in the center of one of New Orleans’ oldest neighborhoods, and the community that’s fighting together there for hope and survival. Director Jackson Fager chronicles the journey of Coach Brice Brown, the Edna Karr Cougars, and their quest for a fifth state championship in six years. Discover the inspiring and remarkable story of the community’s triumph on the football field and far beyond. The first two episodes are available at launch with new episodes debut weekly thereafter on the streaming service.

In a scene from Grey’s Anatomy, actors Harry Shum Jr. and Midori Francis stand in a hospital hallway, and both wear blue scrubs and a white lab coat.

Grey’s Anatomy—Thursday, April 20, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on ABC
Emotions run high at Grey Sloan during this all-new episode as the threats against Bailey (Chandra Wilson) come to a terrifying head. Meanwhile, Amelia (Caterina Scorsone) takes her personal problems out on her work colleagues. Elsewhere, Lucas (Niko Terho) and Jules (Adelaide Kane) are pressured to make a risky decision on a patient, while Mika (Midori Francis) struggles with burnout. Episodes are available to stream the next day on Hulu.

In a scene from Good Trouble, actors Zuri Adele and Rob Nagle shake hands at a party while actor Yasmine Aker stands to the left of Adele.

Good Trouble—Thursday, April 20, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on Freeform
In a brand-new episode, Malika (Zuri Adele) attempts to prove she’s mastered her work/life balance. Meanwhile, when Joaquin (Bryan Craig) finds additional evidence, he’s tempted to resume his mission to take down Silas (Graham Sibley) and his cult, despite the extreme danger. Elsewhere, Dennis (Josh Pence) encounters a roadblock at his restaurant, leading him to contemplate a risky shortcut. Episodes are available to stream the next day on Hulu.

Beyond Wild Pin Set Celebrating Disney’s Animal Kingdom 25th Anniversary

By Peyton Liebler

Twenty-five years of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, and all we can say is: “Safari, so great!” D23 Gold Members can join in on a jungle of a jubilee and venture back through two-plus decades at Disney’s Animal Kingdom with this zanily zoological set of pins. And we’re not “lion” when we say, these are sure to be the “mane” attraction of any collection!

Since opening on Earth Day, April 22, 1998, Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort has welcomed millions of visitors and delighted explorers of all ages. Featuring a unique approach to storytelling through attractions and experiences, Disney’s Animal Kingdom allows guests to discover all there is to know about the natural world through both real-life and imagined representations of animals and places—while also communicating vital messages about conservation. From traveling through a vibrant savannah on an African safari and braving an expedition on the highest mountain on Earth, to venturing back in time to the cretaceous period and even soaring through the air of a lush alien world, Disney’s Animal Kingdom has given many the opportunity to appreciate the intrinsic value of the natural world around us.

Animal Kingdom 25th Pin
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Roar with pride and celebrate 25 wild years of Disney’s Animal Kingdom with these fur-ocious pins! They’re a fierce way to reflect on a groundbreaking park that celebrates the magic of nature. The set features pins representative of each “paw-some” area of the park—including a Carnotaurus, a Yeti, a Giraffe, and even an Ikran (or as we call it, a banshee); they surrounds a special center pin representing the Tree of Life, which is emblazoned with “25 Years of Animal Kingdom.” Give into your beastly nature and get your claws on these pins now!

Our Disney’s Animal Kingdom 25th Anniversary pin set, offered in a limited edition of 1,000, is available to D23 Gold Members at 8 a.m. PST on shopDisney, Tuesday, April 18, 2023.

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*Available while supplies last. To purchase, you must log in to shopDisney.com with the Disney account tied to D23 Gold Membership. These pin sets are sold for $29.99 each, plus applicable sales tax. Maximum of two (2) pin sets of this style for purchase per D23 Gold Member for online orders. Shipping not available to PO boxes; shipping and handling fees may vary for all online orders. Other restrictions may apply. All information is subject to change including, but not limited to, artwork, release dates, editions sizes, and retail prices.