AceShowbiz - The beloved 2000s fantasy animated series Clifford the Big Red Dog, which featured the voice of John Ritter, is officially returning with a reboot slated for 2027. The announcement was confirmed by industry sources including The Hollywood Reporter, highlighting the renewed effort to bring this cherished children’s show back to PBS Kids.

John Ritter was known for his extensive work in film and television, notably starring in the 1990 comedy Problem Child and its sequel, as well as leading roles in television Classics like Three’s Company and its spinoff Three’s a Crowd. Among his diverse career achievements, he lent his voice to the original Clifford the Big Red Dog animated series, which first aired in 2000. Now, more than two decades later, the series that introduced audiences to the adventures of Clifford and his owner Emily Elizabeth is preparing to return to screens nationwide.

The reboot will be produced by 9 Story Media Group, with animation provided by Brown Bag Films, both of which have strong reputations in children’s programming. The upcoming series will consist of 26 episodes, each approximately 11 minutes long, maintaining the original format that targeted preschool viewers. As with the classic show, the stories will focus on Clifford and Emily Elizabeth solving everyday problems, making friends, and teaching important social lessons.

Sara DeWitt, senior vice president and general manager of PBS Kids and Education, emphasized the show’s role in fostering connection among children. She stated, “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. Giving kids the skills, knowledge, and encouragement they need to connect with others and sustain relationships is more vital than ever to prepare them for success in school and life.”

Further highlighting the creative vision behind the reboot, Iole Lucchese, chief strategy officer and president of Scholastic Entertainment, expressed excitement about building on Clifford’s legacy. As an executive producer on the new show, Lucchese remarked that the series will “build on Clifford’s most endearing traits through fresh storytelling, creating new opportunities for audiences and marking an exciting step in the continued growth of the franchise.” Scholastic’s original book series by Norman Bridwell, which inspired the show, has sold over 135 million copies worldwide since its debut in 1963, making Clifford a literary and cultural icon.

Adding to the production team’s enthusiasm, Vince Commisso, president and CEO of 9 Story Media Group, who is also serving as an executive producer, noted the partnership with PBS Kids and their aim to engage a new generation. He shared, “With this next chapter, we’re leaning into a more comedic approach that amplifies the scale and playfulness of Clifford, while staying grounded in the warmth and emotional connection audiences have always loved. We’re also proud to once again partner with PBS Kids, a trusted home for a brand that has resonated with families for generations.”

Besides the television reboot, plans are underway for a new Clifford game to launch alongside the series, expanding the franchise’s reach into interactive media. This upcoming reboot marks the second revival of the original show, following a previous reboot that premiered in 2019. The franchise itself has expanded in recent years, including a theatrical and Paramount+ movie release in 2021, which brought Clifford’s adventures to the big screen and streaming audiences alike.

In addition to the TV and game projects, the Clifford franchise is developing other creative ventures. Paramount announced plans for a movie sequel back in 2021, although no further updates have been provided since that time. Meanwhile, TheaterWorksUSA is producing a stage musical adaptation featuring puppetry and original music composed by Sam Tsui and Casey Breves, further diversifying Clifford's presence in children’s entertainment.

The 2027 reboot promises to preserve the heart and educational spirit of the original series, continuing to teach children important lessons about friendship, empathy, and community. While the new voice cast has not yet been revealed, the series will stay true to the values established in the source material by Norman Bridwell, ensuring that Clifford’s message of kindness and connection endures for new audiences.

Overall, the return of Clifford the Big Red Dog reflects the ongoing appeal of classic children’s programming, updated for today’s preschool viewers with fresh animation and storytelling. The collaboration between PBS Kids, Scholastic Entertainment, and 9 Story Media Group aims to offer both nostalgia for parents and engaging content for children as they learn social skills and explore the world alongside their favorite big red dog.