Disney Branded TV Extends Deal with Craig Gerber

Disney Branded Television has extended its overall development deal with Emmy Award winner Craig Gerber, creator of Sofia the First, Elena of Avalor and Firebuds.

Under the extended agreement, Gerber is developing a Sofia the First spin-off series set in Royal Prep Academy, a school for princes and princesses. It is his second series in development for Disney Branded TV through his production banner, Electric Emu.

Gerber also has a previously announced series in development at Disney with Kris Wimberly (Elena of Avalor, Firebuds) about a time-traveling treasure hunter who recovers lost family treasures. The series is created by Wimberly and will be executive produced by both Wimberly and Gerber.

Alyssa Sapire, senior VP of development, series and strategy at Disney Junior, said, “Craig’s commitment to representing diverse characters and stories with messages of compassion, leadership and resilience is a throughline in his career. His ability to tell entertaining, heartfelt and meaningful stories that resonate with both children and adults alike is unmatched, and I look forward to continuing our partnership for many, many years to come.”

Gerber said, “I am excited to be continuing my creative partnership with both Alyssa and Disney Branded Television. Together, we have produced three meaningful, diverse shows, and I am looking forward to broadening the scope of our collaboration while also championing new voices. It’s particularly thrilling to return to the enchanted world of Sofia the First, where it all began ten years ago, and create a follow-up series that is just as magical.”