The Real Frozen to Feature Bell, Menzel, Groff and Gad
National Geographic, in collaboration with Walt Disney Animation Studios, today announced the green light of the new natural history series The Real Frozen (working title), which will premiere on National Geographic and stream on Disney+ and Hulu.
The Real Frozen pushes innovation into uncharted territory by imagining our lead animated characters as if they were inhabiting the real worlds depicted throughout the series. Using the very best of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ craft and the award-winning cinematography of Silverback Films (Secrets of the Bees, Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story, Ocean with David Attenborough), the stories will take audiences on a journey of wonder like never before.
Set against the breathtaking icy landscapes of Iceland, Finland, Norway and Sweden, The Real Frozen follows real-life animals whose fortitude, loyalty, resilience and relationships echo the emotional heart of the Frozen franchise. These animals navigate the harshest winters, revealing extraordinary behaviors, survival strategies and bonds.
Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel and Jonathan Groff return to voice Anna, Elsa and Kristoff, reprising their roles as our beloved narrators to guide viewers through each story, with a whimsical storytelling style tied to the distinct themes of courage, trust and transformation, with Josh Gad making special appearances as Olaf along the way.
“At National Geographic, we’re passionate about inspiring the next generation through stories kids love and parents trust,” said Courteney Monroe, president, National Geographic Content. “Building on the success of our Emmy-winning A Real Bug’s Life and the upcoming The Real Finding Nemo, we’re excited to continue growing ‘The Real’ franchise with The Real Frozen.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to bring together Disney’s beloved stories and characters with National Geographic’s boundary-pushing natural history storytelling, introducing kids and families to the incredible wonders of the world and opening the door to a lifetime of discovery.”
“There is no one better than National Geographic to bring viewers a look at the real places in the world that inspired the creation of the ‘Frozen’ world and its magical, wondrous environments,” says Frozen 3 producer Christina Chen. “We are thrilled to have our lead characters with our talented cast and original ‘Frozen’ animators who bring them to life be part of this series.”
This series is the latest from National Geographic in bringing beloved Disney worlds to life through real-world science, nature and cinematic storytelling. Recent successes include the four-part series LION, which depicted a real-life The Lion King, the Emmy-winning A Real Bug’s Life and the upcoming The Real Finding Nemo.
“It’s a rare thing to work on a project that brings together the Walt Disney Animation Studios and National Geographic, two names synonymous with wonder and imagination,” said Jeff Wilson, director, Silverback Films.
“We know there are extraordinary animal tales out there in the world, and this collaboration gives us the chance to show audiences that the real world of ‘Frozen’ is every bit as magical as the animated version, with a sense of wonder and even perhaps a wink.”
In collaboration with Walt Disney Animation Studios, The Real Frozen is produced by Silverback Films for National Geographic. For Silverback Films, Jeff Wilson directs the series, and Elisabeth Oakham and Katie Parsons serve as director and producers on all episodes.
For National Geographic, Janet H. Vissering is executive producer, and Tom McDonald is executive vice president of Content.
