WASHINGTON — The doctor is in, at least for another season.
After an outpouring of support on social media from concerned fans last summer, Disney Junior has renewed its Peabody Award-winning series, “Doc McStuffins,” for a fifth season.
The animated series tells the story of a young girl, who aspires to be a doctor, like her mother. Dottie “Doc” McStuffins practices by fixing and healing her dolls and toys.
In July, fans on Twitter and Facebook launched a #RenewDocMcStuffins campaign, because a fifth season of shows hadn’t been ordered.
“Our viewers have forged a deep connection with this series and are very vocal about how strongly they believe in these characters,” said Nancy Kanter, executive vice president and general manager of Disney Junior Worldwide, in a statement announcing the fifth season.
Show creator Chris Nee told WTOP the program has always aimed to empower young and under-represented people.
“I’m thrilled in a difficult week to be able to announce something so positive,” said Nee, alluding to last week’s elections, including that of President-elect Donald Trump.
“We are a country that is so diverse, and we will continue to celebrate who we really are.”
One of the show’s stars, Robbie Rist, who voices the character of Stuffy, a blue stuffed dragon, also believes the show can provide comfort for young people, during a time of political division.
“Every American can learn a tremendous amount by watching this television show made for 5 year olds. About caring. About diversity. About doing the right thing. It teaches hope to our future. I’m not happy. I’m honored,” Rist told WTOP.
First lady Michelle Obama guest-starred as herself in an episode in 2015. Watch video here:
