Netflix orders kids animation from Chris Nee and the Obamas

Netflix has ordered an animated preschool series from former US president Barack Obama and Michelle Obama’s production company Higher Ground Productions and Doc McStuffins creator Chris Nee.

The 40 x 12-minute series Ada Twist, Scientist, is based on the books of the same name by author Andrea Beaty and illustrator David Roberts, telling the story of a young black scientist who helps people through scientific discovery, collaboration and friendship.

Kerri Grant will serve as showrunner for series, which will debut globally starting in 2021, with Wonder Worldwide attached as a producing partner.

The project marks the first series announced under Netflix’s overall deal with Nee and her production company Laughing Wild.

Mark Burton (Water, The Indian Detective), Tonia Davis and Priya Swaminathan (American Factory, Crip Camp, Becoming) are attached as exec producers, as well as author Beaty and illustrator Roberts.

Chris Nee commented: “I’m thrilled to be partnering with Higher Ground to bring Ada Twist to the screen. As a fan of the books I was taken with the diverse characters, striking designs and vital message that science matters.

“Plus, Ada fulfills my personal need to populate children’s television with strong girls who aren’t afraid to be the smartest kids in the room. Once Kerri Grant came on board to showrun, I knew we had the dream team to bring this special series to life.”