Disney and Square Enix are developing an original Kingdom Hearts anime for Disney+ and Disney Channel, unveiled at D23 as the franchise’s first TV adaptation.

The series is described as an original anime inspired by Kingdom Hearts, not a direct retelling, with new, expanding storytelling and collaboration between Disney and Square Enix.

Production has been confirmed as underway, with Tetsuya Nomura involved and new character designs created specifically for the series.

A teaser and a single piece of key art featuring Sora were released, but no specific release date or episode count has been announced beyond a generic “coming soon.”

The report includes attribution to IGN’s Michael Cripe and notes related coverage links.

Details remain scarce on the series’ logistics, with no confirmed release window or attached animation studio beyond a teaser and key art.

Nomura has stated ongoing collaboration with the scenario and art teams and emphasized that new character designs were created for the project.

Nomura confirmed the project via X, reiterating his close involvement and that the new designs are specific to the series.

He cannot share specifics yet but confirms a continued collaboration with the writing and art teams.

The coverage builds on statements from Disney and IGN, situating the anime within the broader Kingdom Hearts cross-media strategy.

The series is positioned as a spin-off rather than a direct adaptation, inviting fans to imagine its direction.

Kingdom Hearts IV is still slated for late 2027, with Pixar’s Coco integration and new voice confirmations adding context to the franchise trajectory.