Disney has released the first trailer for its new animated series “Primos,” a heartfelt depiction of a multicultural family inspired by the life of creator Natasha Kline. In an exclusive interview with the Hollywood Reporter, Kline shares the journey behind the show’s creation and addresses initial reactions to its announcement.
Celebrating Family and Culture
Natasha Kline knew from a young age that she wanted to be an animator. Growing up in a large, diverse family in Los Angeles, Kline found inspiration in the city’s grit and authenticity. Her vision for “Primos” was to capture the essence of her upbringing and reflect the multicultural reality of many families like hers.
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Kline’s new series centers on Tater, an ambitious 10-year-old whose summer plans are interrupted by the arrival of her 12 cousins. Through Tater’s eyes, the show explores the dynamics of a multicultural family, showcasing the love, support, and occasional chaos that come with it. Kline emphasizes that her goal was to create a show that resonates with children from similar backgrounds, offering them a mirror to their own experiences.
Personal Inspirations and Artistic Development
Kline’s work on “Primos” is deeply personal. The show’s aesthetic draws from her own neighborhood, with backgrounds influenced by the Inland Empire where she grew up. The characters are modeled after her own family members, bringing a layer of authenticity to the series. Kline’s attention to detail ensures that the show’s environment feels lived-in and relatable.
In the writers’ room, Kline and her team focused on creating humor that is both accessible and respectful. Drawing on her experience in both adult and children’s animation, Kline aimed to balance humor with meaningful storytelling. The result is a series that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with jokes that are carefully crafted to avoid discomfort or insensitivity.
Addressing Criticisms and Embracing Authenticity
When the opening theme for “Primos” debuted last year, it faced some criticism. Kline took this feedback seriously, making thoughtful changes while preserving the show’s core message. She explains that while certain names and elements were adjusted, the heart of the show—self-love, family support, and cultural pride—remains intact.
Kline also discusses the importance of authenticity in casting and storytelling. The voices behind “Primos” are all deeply connected to the characters they portray, bringing their own experiences and emotions to their roles. This commitment to authenticity extends to the use of Spanish in the series, reflecting Kline’s own bicultural upbringing and the varying degrees of fluency within her family.
A Message of Love and Acceptance
“Primos” is set to debut on July 25 on Disney and July 26 on Disney+. The series joins a growing roster of animated shows that celebrate the diverse landscape of the U.S. and the global Latin diaspora. Kline hopes that “Primos” will offer children a sense of belonging and representation, showing them that their unique experiences are valued and worthy of celebration.
With its rich storytelling and vibrant characters, “Primos” promises to be a heartfelt addition to Disney’s lineup. Kline’s dedication to capturing the nuances of her multicultural family shines through, offering viewers a glimpse into the love and complexity that define many families today. As the series prepares for its debut, Kline remains hopeful that audiences will embrace “Primos” and the important messages it conveys.