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Disney Plus is moving forward with a new live action project centered on one of its most recognizable characters. The streaming platform is developing a new version of “Tink,” a series based on the iconic fairy Tinker Bell. According to recent reports, the project has become a high priority at Disney Plus after spending years in development in different forms.
The upcoming series is being written and executive produced by Liz Heldens and Bridget Carpenter, two writers who previously worked together on the popular television drama Friday Night Lights. Their involvement signals that Disney is aiming for a character driven story with a strong dramatic foundation rather than a simple retelling of the familiar fairy tale.
At the moment, Disney has not released an official story description for the project. However, the history of the “Tink” concept at the studio shows that the idea has been explored several times over the past decade. As far back as 2010, Disney announced a live action romantic comedy built around Tinker Bell. That earlier version had actress Elizabeth Banks attached to star, with producers Adam Shankman, Jennifer Gibgot, and McG involved in development.
A few years later, the project was reworked again. In 2015, Reese Witherspoon was reportedly attached to lead another version of “Tink.” That film was planned as a live action adaptation inspired by the beloved Peter Pan character. Despite the high profile talent attached, that version never moved forward into production.
Tinker Bell has continued to appear in other Disney projects during that time. Most recently, actress Yara Shahidi portrayed the character in the 2023 live action film Peter Pan and Wendy. The character has remained an enduring figure in Disney storytelling for decades, first appearing alongside Peter Pan and becoming a recognizable symbol of the company itself.
The latest “Tink” project is currently in drama development for Disney Plus through 20th Television. In addition to Heldens and Carpenter, several producers are attached to the series. Gary Marsh, the former president of Disney Channels Worldwide and Disney Branded Television, is among the executive producers. Marsh left his executive role in 2021 and has since focused on producing new content. Even at the time of his departure, “Tink” was mentioned as one of the projects he planned to pursue.
Another executive producer on the series is Quinn Haberman from Selfish Mermaid. The growing creative team suggests Disney is putting serious effort into developing the project as a major addition to the Disney Plus lineup.
Both lead writers bring significant experience to the project. Liz Heldens is currently serving as co showrunner on the ABC series Will Trent. Her previous work includes Boston Public, Mercy, Deception, The Passage, Camp, and The Big Leap. She also served as an executive producer on The Orville and the Hulu limited series The Dropout.
Bridget Carpenter has also built an impressive television career. Her writing credits include Only Murders in the Building, Parenthood, Westworld, The Red Road, and the limited series 11.22.63. In addition to her television work, Carpenter is an accomplished playwright whose productions have been staged at major theaters including Steppenwolf Theatre Company, The Public Theater, Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.
While many details about the storyline and casting remain unknown, the renewed focus on “Tink” indicates Disney Plus is eager to expand its library with projects tied to classic characters. With an experienced creative team now in place, the new Tinker Bell series appears to be gaining momentum after years of development.
