Phineas and Ferb creator Dan Povernmire is reviving the beloved animated series as part of an overall deal with Disney Branded Television.
According to Variety, Disney has ordered 40 new episodes of the iconic animated series, which will be split up into two seasons. The announcement was made by Ayo Davis, president of Disney Branded Television, during the Television Critics Association winter press tour. "Dan is renowned for his ability to create universally beloved stories and characters with both heart and humor," said Davis. "We couldn’t be happier to continue our collaboration with him and bring back the iconic Phineas and Ferb in a big way." Although Povenmire is the only one signed on at the moment, talks are reportedly underway for executive producer Jeff “Swampy” Marsh to also return.
Phineas and Ferb originally aired on Disney Channel (and later Disney XD) from 2007 to 2015, airing 129 episodes across four seasons. The Emmy-winning animated series follows two resourceful stepbrothers who conquer boredom and make every day of summer vacation count, often to the chagrin of their sister Candace. "It has been the greatest pleasure of my career to see how an entire generation of kids and parents have embraced the characters and the humor of Phineas and Ferb," Povenmire said in a statement. "I’m eagerly looking forward to diving back into the show for them and for a whole new generation."
Disney Also Renews Povenmire's Hamster & Gretel
Povenmire's deal with Disney Branded Television also included a second season of his latest animated series, Hamster & Gretel, which follows a 16-year-old boy named Kevin who must work with his sister Gretel after she and her pet hamster are given superpowers by aliens and become a superhero duo dedicated to protecting their city. Hamster & Gretel features the voices of Meli Povenmire, Michael Cimino, Beck Bennett, Joey King, Matt Jones and Carolina Ravassa. The first season premiered in August 2022.
"Dan is a true mastermind, and his brilliant brand of storytelling has always been infused with a kind-spirited and optimistic sense of humor which continues to strike a perfect chord with audiences the world over," said Meredith Roberts, executive vice president of animation at Disney Branded Television. "On behalf of everyone at Disney Television Animation, we’re so pleased to continue our association with Dan and his inspiring creative team ― visionary producers, writers, animators, song composers and directors who have entertained and connected with generations of viewers."
The Phineas and Ferb revival does not yet have a premiere date. The original run -- as well as the animated films Phineas and Ferb the Movie: Across the 2nd Dimension (2011) and Phineas and Ferb the Movie: Candace Against the Universe (2020) -- is available to stream on Disney+.
Source: Variety