Philadelphia’s own Quinta Brunson is taking on one of animation’s most recognizable characters. The Emmy-winning creator and star of Abbott Elementary is officially developing and starring in a brand-new feature film centered around Betty Boop.
The upcoming project, currently in development through Brunson’s production company Fifth Chance Productions and Fleischer Studios, will explore the origins of the beloved flapper-era icon through the relationship between Betty Boop and her creator, animator Max Fleischer.
Rather than a traditional remake, the film is expected to blend biography, fantasy, and commentary on fame, creativity, and cultural influence. According to reports, the story will examine how Betty Boop evolved into one of the world’s first animated superstars while taking on a life of her own beyond the drawing board.
Brunson said the nearly 100-year-old character still feels culturally relevant today.
“Betty Boop is one of our nation’s most beloved cartoon characters, yet somehow still remains pleasantly niche,” Brunson shared in a statement. “She has had a quiet but undeniable impact on culture for nearly a century.”
Betty Boop returns to theaters for the first time in decades 🎥
The role marks Betty Boop’s first starring theatrical feature appearance since the 1930s. Created in 1930, the cartoon icon appeared in more than 100 animated shorts and became known for her signature voice, Jazz Age style, and groundbreaking status as animation’s first female superstar.
For Philadelphia audiences, the announcement is another major milestone for Brunson, whose career continues to skyrocket following the success of Abbott Elementary. The hit ABC comedy, set inside a fictional Philadelphia public school, has become one of television’s most celebrated sitcoms and earned Brunson multiple Emmy wins and nominations.
Since premiering in 2021, Abbott Elementary has helped spotlight Philadelphia culture on a national level while turning Brunson into one of the city’s most influential entertainment figures.
Now, she’s bringing that same creative vision to Betty Boop — giving a classic character a fresh, modern perspective for a new generation.
