Jantomi Hall
Staff Writer
After nearly 15 years off-air, Disney Channel’s, The Proud Family is returning with a new series.
The Proud Family is a Black animated series based on the life of 14-year-old Penny Proud. The show shares the different experiences that Penny goes through as a teen with the help of her family and friends.
The official name for the reboot series is, “The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder.”
The reboot will consist of its same producers, Bruce W. Smith and Ralph Farquhar. Both have signed a multi-year deal with Disney+.
Although an official air date has not been announced, Disney+ recently shared a sneak peak of what to expect in the new series.
Some of the details include giving original cast members an updated look along with adding their newest character, Maya Lebowitz-Jenkins.
Maya’s character will be voiced by actress Keke Palmer. Not only will Maya be the newest member of Penny’s crew, but she is also the adopted daughter of a mixed-race family. Her character is considered to be more mature than Penny and her friends, for as Maya considers herself an activist.
Even though it has been over a decade since “The Proud Family” made its big debut back in 2001, Penny is still considered a teenager in the new series.
Unfortunately, the only original cast member that will not be returning is Orlando Brown, the voice of Penny’s friend, Sticky Webb. It has not been said why Brown is not returning to the show, but fans speculate it is because of his recent troubled outbursts and social media presence.
The Proud Family has left an impact on many people’s childhood. From its famous theme song performed by former music group Destiny’s Child, its funny characters, fulfilling storylines, and so much more. While many are waiting for the show’s return, the original three seasons of “The Proud Family can be found on the Disney+ app.
Jamee Mcadoo, a sophomore journalism and media studies major from Little Rock, Ark., shared her excitement about the return of, “The Proud Family.”
“The Proud Family was such a staple in my childhood,” says Mcadoo. “I loved it before I even knew the importance of its representation, especially in kids’ entertainment. I never understood why it went off air considering many people loved the show.”
Nayaa Atkins, a senior computer science major from Terry, Miss., shared how iconic The Proud Family is to him.
“It’s really hard for me to go back and watch something that has been gone for so long. However, The Proud Family was an iconic show that I would welcome back with open arms,” says Atkins.
Atkins continued, “I’ll be watching the newer show for the feeling of bittersweet nostalgia in hopes that the show is just as good as its predecessor. I’m looking forward to the reboot of The Proud Family.
