A familiar childhood favorite is getting a new life on screen
PBS KIDS has announced that a new animated version of Clifford the Big Red Dog is set to premiere in 2027.
The reimagined comedic series follows Emily Elizabeth, described as a child with “big-hearted ideas,” and Clifford, whose giant size often turns small situations into much larger adventures. Created for preschool viewers ages 3 to 5, the show will introduce lessons centered around friendship, communication, teamwork, and learning how to interact with others in a community setting.
“Clifford has been a favorite with children and families for generations, and we can’t wait to reintroduce this Big Red Dog to PBS KIDS audiences across the country,” said Sara DeWitt, Senior Vice President and General Manager of PBS KIDS and Education. “Giving kids the skills, knowledge, and encouragement they need to connect with others and sustain relationships is more vital than ever.”
Scholastic executive Iole Lucchese said the new series builds on the qualities that made Clifford such a recognizable and lasting character around the world.
“Since he first filled a page, Clifford the Big Red Dog captured the heart of Scholastic and his adventures connected with readers everywhere,” she shared. “This new series builds on Clifford’s most endearing traits through fresh storytelling.”
The series will feature 26 episodes, with each installment made up of two separate 11-minute stories. The new project was developed by 9 Story Media Group. Jason Hopley (NANALAN’, BIG AND SMALL, CORN & PEG) serves as Head Writer, while Cory Bobiak (PEG + CAT, XAVIER RIDDLE AND THE SECRET MUSEUM) directs the series.
CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG by Norman Bridwell was first published in 1963 by Scholastic and now boasts more than 135 million books in print in 20 languages distributed worldwide.
