Disney Junior To Intro Latina Princess In 'Sofia'

Disney Junior in 2016 will debut a new animated series featuring a Latina Princess, who will be introduced as part of its popular series Sofia The First, the network said Thursday.

Princess Elena Of Avalor, inspired by diverse Latin cultures and folklore, will be introduced in a special episode of Sofia the First beginning production now for a 2016 premiere, said network officials.  

That Sofia The First arc will usher in the 2016 launch of the animated series Elena of Avalor, said the network.  The role of 16-year-old Princess Elena will be voiced by Aimee Carrero (ABC Family's Young & Hungry).

"Our creative team has delivered a universal story with themes that authentically reflect the hopes and dreams of our diverse audience," said Nancy Kanter, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Disney Junior Worldwide in a statement. "What excites us most is the chance to use distinctive animation and visual design to tell wonderful stories influenced by culture and traditions that are familiar to the worldwide population of Hispanic and Latino families and reflect the interests and aspirations of all children as told through a classic fairy tale."

The series will be presented in 25 languages on Disney Junior channels and daily programming blocks for kids age 2-7 on Disney Channels, among other platforms, in 154 countries around the world. On television alone, its estimated daily reach will be over 207-million households, according to Disney.

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.