{{Short description|American animated television series}} {{about|the 2013–2018 series|the 2026 series|Sofia the First: Royal Magic}} {{pp-semi-indef|small=yes}} {{good article}} {{Use American English|date=August 2022}} {{Use mdy dates|date=August 2022}} {{Infobox television | image = Sofiathefirstlogo.png | genre = {{unbulleted list|Fantasy<ref name="Guide">{{Cite web |title=Sofia the First |url=https://www.tvguide.com/tvshows/sofia-the-first/1000407439/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220605121112/https://www.tvguide.com/tvshows/sofia-the-first/1000407439/ |archive-date=June 5, 2022 |access-date=June 2, 2022 |website=TV Guide |language=en}}</ref>|Comedy<ref name="Futon">{{Cite web |title=Sofia the First |url=http://www.thefutoncritic.com/showatch/sofia-the-first |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230722012230/http://www.thefutoncritic.com/showatch/sofia-the-first |archive-date=July 22, 2023 |access-date=June 2, 2022 |publisher=The Futon Critic}}</ref>}} | creator = Craig Gerber<ref name="dl">{{Cite news |date=November 27, 2012 |title=Disney Jr's 'Sofia The First' Set To Debut January 11 |url=https://deadline.com/2012/11/disney-jrs-sofia-the-first-set-to-debut-january-11-2013-377390/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180701194206/https://deadline.com/2012/11/disney-jrs-sofia-the-first-set-to-debut-january-11-2013-377390/ |archive-date=July 1, 2018 |access-date=February 18, 2016 |work=Deadline Hollywood |publisher=Penske Business Media, LLC}}</ref> | developer = Craig Gerber | director = Jamie Mitchell<ref name=dl/> | voices = {{unbulleted list|Ariel Winter|Wayne Brady|Darcy Rose Byrnes||Zach Callison (seasons 1–2)|Tyler Merna (seasons 2–3)|Nicolas Cantu (seasons 3–4)|Sara Ramirez|Travis Willingham|Tim Gunn|Jess Harnell}} | country = United States | language = English | num_seasons = 4 | num_episodes = 113 | list_episodes = List of Sofia the First episodes | composer = Kevin Kliesch <!-- Score composer only --> | executive_producer = Craig Gerber<br />Jamie Mitchell | editor = Pieter Kaufman | company = Disney Television Animation | theme_music_composer = John Kavanaugh<br />Craig Gerber | open_theme = {{Theme song|"Sofia the First Theme Song"|Ariel Winter|Laura Dickinson}} | end_theme = "Sofia the First Theme Song" (instrumental) | runtime = 22 minutes<ref>{{Cite web |last=Glendale |first=Calif |date=June 26, 2013 |title="Sofia the First" Merchandise Line Launches at Retailers Nationwide |url=https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20130626005999/en/%E2%80%9CSofia-the-First%E2%80%9D-Merchandise-Line-Launches-at-Retailers-Nationwide |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220721040132/https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20130626005999/en/%E2%80%9CSofia-the-First%E2%80%9D-Merchandise-Line-Launches-at-Retailers-Nationwide |archive-date=July 21, 2022 |access-date=July 21, 2022 |publisher=Disney Consumer Products |language=en |via=BusinessWire}}</ref> | network = Disney Junior<ref name=dl/><br />Disney Channel<ref name=dl/> | first_aired = {{Start date|2013|1|11}} | last_aired = {{End date|2018|9|8}} | related = ''Sofia the First: Royal Magic''<br />''Elena of Avalor''<br />''Elena and the Secret of Avalor'' }} '''''Sofia the First''''' is an American animated musical fantasy children's television series created and developed by Craig Gerber for Disney Television Animation and Disney Junior. The series follows a young peasant girl named Sofia, voiced by Ariel Winter, who becomes a princess after her mother marries the King of Enchancia. The episodes center on her adventures as she adjusts to royal life and forms friendships, including with animal companions with whom she communicates through a magical amulet that rewards or curses her depending on the goodness of her actions. In developing the series, Gerber sought to ground the fantasy setting in relatable, real-world situations; he noted that Sofia's background as the child of a single mother allowed the creative team to explore themes of adaptation and family dynamics relevant to contemporary audiences.
The pilot premiered on November 18, 2012, on Disney Channel. The series subsequently aired from January 11, 2013, to September 8, 2018, on Disney Junior.
''Sofia the First'' received praise for its music, animation, characters, and positive messages. It achieved some of the highest ratings for a preschool cable television series and, at its peak, became the most-watched program in its category. The series was nominated for 11 Daytime Emmy Awards, winning three, and received the 2014 Annie Award for Best General Audience Animated TV/Broadcast Production for Preschool Children. The franchise also generated a range of merchandise, including books and theme park attractions. A sequel series, titled ''Sofia the First: Royal Magic'', premiered on May 25, 2026.<ref>{{Cite press release |title=Disney Jr. Greenlights 'Sofia the First: Royal Magic,' Sequel to Emmy- and Humanitas-Winning Hit Series 'Sofia the First' |date=August 15, 2024 |publisher=Disney Branded Television |url=https://www.dgepress.com/disneybrandedtelevision/pressrelease/disney-jr-greenlights-sofia-the-first-royal-magic-sequel-to-emmy-and-humanitas-winning-hit-series-sofia-the-first/#. |access-date=January 27, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241005204430/https://www.dgepress.com/disneybrandedtelevision/pressrelease/disney-jr-greenlights-sofia-the-first-royal-magic-sequel-to-emmy-and-humanitas-winning-hit-series-sofia-the-first/#. |archive-date=2024-10-05 |location=Burbank, California |quote=From Disney Branded Television, the new series is currently in production and is slated for a 2026 premiere on Disney Jr. and Disney+. |last1=McCearley |first1=Erica}}</ref><ref name="Milligan2026SofiaRoyalMagic">{{Cite web |last=Milligan |first=Mercedes |date=February 17, 2026 |title=First Look: 'Sofia the First: Royal Magic' Brings Back Disney Jr.'s Princess in Training |url=https://www.animationmagazine.net/2026/02/first-look-sofia-the-first-royal-magic-brings-back-disney-jr-s-princess-in-training/ |access-date=February 17, 2026 |website=Animation Magazine}}</ref><ref name="Milligan2026SofiaRoyalMagic2">{{Cite web |last=Milligan |first=Mercedes|title='Sofia the First: Royal Magic' Conjures New Theme Song & Key Art |url=https://www.animationmagazine.net/2026/04/sofia-the-first-royal-magic-conjures-new-theme-song-key-art/ |access-date=April 2, 2026 |website=Animation Magazine |date=April 2, 2026}}</ref>
== Plot == Sofia and her widowed mother, Miranda, live a humble life in the kingdom of Enchancia until Miranda marries the widowed King Roland II. Suddenly becoming royalty, Sofia must adjust to life as a princess. As she adapts to her new role, she embarks on numerous adventures, bonds with her twin step-siblings Amber and James, and attends Royal Prep Academy, where Flora, Fauna and Merryweather from ''Sleeping Beauty'' serve as headmistresses.
Roland gifts Sofia the Amulet of Avalor, a powerful magical artifact that rewards her for good deeds and curses her for wrongdoing. The amulet grants her the ability to communicate with animals, leading her to befriend Clover the rabbit and the birds Mia and Robin. It also connects "all the princesses there ever were," summoning them to aid one another in times of need. Throughout the early seasons, the royal sorcerer Cedric repeatedly attempts to steal the amulet in order to overthrow the royal family and seize control of Enchancia. However, as he grows closer to Sofia, he begins to question his ambitions and ultimately confesses his plans, expressing remorse for his actions.
In the third season, Sofia's Aunt Tilly gives her a magical book that leads her to a secret library hidden within the castle. The library contains hundreds of unfinished stories, and Sofia is tasked with ensuring that each one receives a happy ending.
In the fourth season, another book transports her to the Mystic Isles, a realm above the clouds where all magic originates. After saving the Isles from the crystal master Prisma, Sofia begins training to become the Protector{{efn|Beings that defend others from magical threats}} of the Ever Realm.{{efn|The world in which Sofia lives}} Prisma later frees the imprisoned sorceress Vor using the "Wicked Nine",{{efn|Nine magical items once belonging to Disney villains}} despite the efforts of Sofia and the other Protectors to stop her. In the series finale, Sofia defeats Vor and formally assumes her role as the Protector of the Ever Realm.
==Cast and characters== {{Main|List of Sofia the First characters{{!}}List of ''Sofia the First'' characters}} *Ariel Winter as Sofia *Wayne Brady as Clover *Darcy Rose Byrnes as Princess Amber *Zach Callison (seasons 1–2), Tyler Merna (seasons 2–3) and Nicolas Cantu (seasons 3–4) as Prince James *Sara Ramirez as Miranda *Travis Willingham as King Roland II *Tim Gunn as Baileywick *Jess Harnell as Cedric the Sorcerer
==Production== For five years, Disney writers, child-development and early-education experts and storytelling consultants worked to create a television show that would bypass stereotypes of evil stepmothers and girls requiring princes to save them.<ref name="Rosman" /> Disney also wanted it to spawn various merchandise.<ref name="Barnes">{{cite web |last1=Barnes |first1=Brooks |title=For Disney, a Younger Princess |url=https://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/11/for-disney-a-younger-princess/?ref=media |website=The New York Times |access-date=June 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121022014229/https://mediadecoder.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/11/for-disney-a-younger-princess/?ref=media |archive-date=October 22, 2012 |date=December 11, 2011 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Craig Gerber, who was writing for the company's ''Tinker Bell'' film series,<ref name="Rosman">{{cite web |last1=Rosman |first1=Katherine |title=Test-Marketing a Modern Princess |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424127887324050304578412771510068366 |website=The Wall Street Journal |access-date=June 1, 2022 |date=April 10, 2013 |archive-date=June 5, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220605121112/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424127887324050304578412771510068366 |url-status=live }}</ref> was approached by Disney Junior's Nancy Kanter to create a television series about princesses aimed at children aged two to seven. Though excited to conceive a fantasy world and Princess fairy tale, Gerber wanted the show to be both entertaining and educational, teaching children how to be better people and solutions to social problems. His son often emulated a variety of fantasy characters with whom he had little in common. In the hopes the show could be a "magic mirror" for his son, Gerber employed relatable situations into the fantasy world, which became the genesis for Princess Sofia.<ref name="Huff Gerber">{{cite web |last1=Gerber |first1=Craig |title=Why I Created Disney's Newest Princess |url=https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sofia-the-first_b_2093816 |website=HuffPost |access-date=June 1, 2022 |language=en |date=November 16, 2012 |archive-date=June 5, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220605121112/https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sofia-the-first_b_2093816 |url-status=live }}</ref>
As a child, Gerber lived with his single mother, and her boyfriend and his daughter, whom Gerber considered to be a ''de facto'' stepsister. As an adult, he learnt that when step-siblings and parents were involved, ordinary childhood concerns were typically amplified. Decades later, while attempting to lend a contemporary viewpoint to a fairy tale world, he had an epiphany: he considered the possibilities if Sofia was not born a princess and instead married into a royal family. Step-sisters are a common theme in fairy tales. However, having a mixed royal family that included both a father and a mother appeared to be a prime opportunity to convey stories to which modern children could connect.<ref name="Huff Gerber" /> According to Gerber, Sofia being the child of a single mother provided to a simple method to explore themes of adaptation.<ref name="Rosman" /> He hoped for Sofia to serve as a good role model in a society where many young girls desire to be princesses, demonstrating attributes and learning skills that young girls (and boys) could remember long after.<ref name="Huff Gerber" /> Gerber planned to reference multicultural family dynamics as well.<ref name="Rosman" />
Tim Mertens, the editor of ''Tangled'' (2010), recommended Kevin Kliesch, who helped with the film, to Disney Channel as a composer for ''Sofia the First''. The network was positive towards his background, and he booked the job. Kliesch was usually given one to two weeks to write the music, meaning he had to compose for at least three minutes a day to meet this deadline. The score draws upon the rich orchestral sound of prior Disney films, since the producers hoped to avoid "typical cartoon music".<ref name="Gencarelli">{{cite interview |last1=Kliesch |first1=Kevin |interviewer=Mike Gencarelli |title=Kevin Kliesch talks about composing the score for Disney Junior's "Sofia the First" |url=https://mediamikes.com/2014/06/kevin-kliesch-talks-about-composing-the-score-for-the-disney-junior-series-sofia-the-first |website=MediaMikes |access-date=June 9, 2022 |date=June 5, 2014}}</ref> Similarly, in the original songs, Gerber and the composer included aspects of Motown, jazz, hip-hop and Broadway, rather than "cloying kiddie sounds".<ref name="Rosman" />
==Episodes== {{main|List of Sofia the First episodes{{!}}List of ''Sofia the First'' episodes}} {{:List of Sofia the First episodes}}
==Release== ===Broadcast=== The series pilot—the television film ''Once Upon a Princess''—premiered on Disney Channel on November 18, 2012.<ref name="Schneider">{{cite web |last1=Schneider |first1=Michael |title=Disney Schedules Launch for New Pre-school Phenom Sofia The First |url=https://www.tvguide.com/news/disney-schedules-sofia-the-first-launch-1056867 |website=TV Guide |access-date=July 18, 2022 |language=en |date=November 27, 2012 |archive-date=July 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220720042348/https://www.tvguide.com/news/disney-schedules-sofia-the-first-launch-1056867/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The series itself premiered on January 11, 2013;<ref name="dl" /> the show aired on Disney Channel during its Disney Jr. block, in addition to the 24-hour channel Disney Junior. ''Sofia the First'' was renewed for a second season two months later.<ref name="Andreeva">{{cite web |url=https://www.deadline.com/2013/03/disney-juniors-sofia-the-first-renewed-for-second-season |title=Disney Junior's 'Sofia The First' Renewed For Second Season |last=Andreeva |first=Nellie |work=Deadline Hollywood |date=March 5, 2013 |access-date=October 22, 2013 |archive-date=October 23, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131023100549/http://www.deadline.com/2013/03/disney-juniors-sofia-the-first-renewed-for-second-season/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> In November, the series aired the special "The Floating Palace".<ref>{{cite web |last1=Truitt |first1=Brian |title='Sofia the First' goes underwater for November special |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/2013/10/10/sofia-the-first-the-floating-palace-disney-special/2961511 |website=USA Today |access-date=July 18, 2022 |date=October 10, 2013 |archive-date=July 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220720042357/https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/2013/10/10/sofia-the-first-the-floating-palace-disney-special/2961511/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Its first season concluded on February 14, 2014.<ref>{{Cite Rotten Tomatoes|id=sofia_the_first|type=tv|access-date=August 20, 2022|season=1|episode=24|title=Four's a Crowd|publisher_hide=y}}</ref> A month earlier, the series had been renewed for a third season.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2014/01/08/sofia-the-first-doc-mcstuffins-jake-and-the-neverland-pirates-renewed-by-disney-junior/227813/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140109020734/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2014/01/08/sofia-the-first-doc-mcstuffins-jake-and-the-neverland-pirates-renewed-by-disney-junior/227813/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 9, 2014 |title='Sofia The First', 'Doc McStuffins' & 'Jake and the Neverland Pirates' Renewed by Disney Junior |last=Bibel |first=Sara |date=January 8, 2014 |work=TV by the Numbers |publisher=Disney Channel |access-date=February 7, 2014}}</ref> The second season premiered on March 7, 2014, and concluded on August 12, 2015,<ref>{{cite Rotten Tomatoes|title=Sofia the First|type=tv|access-date=August 20, 2022|season=2|id=sofia_the_first|publisher_hide=y}}</ref> with a primetime special, titled "The Curse of Princess Ivy", airing on November 23, 2014.<ref name="Kissell" /> On April 14, 2015, the series was renewed for its fourth and final season by Disney Junior,<ref>{{Cite web|title = 'Sofia The First' & 'Doc McStuffins' Renewed At Disney Junior|url = https://deadline.com/2015/04/sofia-the-first-doc-mcstuffins-renewed-season-4-disney-junior-1201409391/|access-date = 2015-09-05|first = Patrick|last = Hipes|date = 14 April 2015|archive-date = April 16, 2015|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150416202651/http://deadline.com/2015/04/sofia-the-first-doc-mcstuffins-renewed-season-4-disney-junior-1201409391/|url-status = live}}</ref> which began its broadcast on April 28, 2017.<ref>{{cite Rotten Tomatoes|title=Day of the Sorcerers|season=4|episode=1|id=sofia_the_first|access-date=August 20, 2022|type=tv|publisher_hide=y}}</ref> The extended series finale special "Forever Royal" was aired on September 8, 2018, with reruns continuing through August 31, 2024.<ref>{{cite press release|title="Sofia the First: Forever Royal" Premieres Saturday, September 8, on Disney Junior|url=http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news/2018/08/22/sofia-the-first-forever-royal-premieres-saturday-september-8-on-disney-junior-491205/20180822disney01/|date=July 22, 2018|publisher=Disney Channel|via=The Futon Critic|access-date=August 28, 2018|quote=a special extended-length finale episode}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Drum |first1=Nicole |title=Ariel Winter Says Goodbye to 'Sofia the First' |url=https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/sofia-the-first-ariel-winter-says-goodbye-disney-channel |website=ComicBook.com |access-date=July 20, 2022 |language=en |date=September 16, 2018 |archive-date=July 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220720042349/https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/news/sofia-the-first-ariel-winter-says-goodbye-disney-channel/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Home media and streaming=== The series premiere episode, titled "Just One of the Princes", was made available on several platforms, including Disney Channel SVOD and iTunes, on January 4, 2013, a week before its airdate.<ref name="Schneider" /> ''Sofia the First'' was streamable on Netflix;<ref name="Bruce">{{cite web |last1=Bruce |first1=Graeme |title=Which streaming service do most parents think has good content for kids? |url=https://today.yougov.com/topics/consumer/articles-reports/2020/04/15/streaming-services-kids |publisher=YouGov |access-date=August 20, 2022 |language=en-us |date=April 16, 2020 |archive-date=August 18, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220818104000/https://today.yougov.com/topics/consumer/articles-reports/2020/04/15/streaming-services-kids |url-status=live }}</ref> its second and fourth seasons were made available in January 2016 and October 2018, respectively.<ref>{{cite web |title=Netflix New Releases Coming in January 2016 |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/netflix-january-2016-new-releases-movies-tv-850528 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |access-date=August 20, 2022 |date=December 21, 2015 |archive-date=August 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220820102843/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/netflix-january-2016-new-releases-movies-tv-850528 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Mallenbaum |first1=Carly |title=New on Netflix in October: 'Making a Murderer,' 'Daredevil' and teen witch 'Sabrina' |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/tv/2018/09/26/new-netflix-october-expiring/1413596002 |website=USA Today |access-date=August 20, 2022 |date=September 26, 2018 |archive-date=August 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220820102845/https://www.usatoday.com/story/life/tv/2018/09/26/new-netflix-october-expiring/1413596002/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The show was moved to Disney+ after its Netflix contract expired.<ref name="Bruce" /> In October 2022, the series was released on Disney+ in the United States.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.newsweek.com/whats-disney-plus-october-2022-werewolf-night-star-wars-1747472|title=What's On Disney+ in October 2022? From 'Werewolf by Night' to 'Star Wars'|first=Roxy|last=Simons|date=October 29, 2022|access-date=November 19, 2022|website=Newsweek|archive-date=November 19, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221119011057/https://www.newsweek.com/whats-disney-plus-october-2022-werewolf-night-star-wars-1747472|url-status=live}}</ref> Disney has also released several episodes on DVD, including "The Floating Palace",<ref>{{cite web |last1=Edelman |first1=Amelia |last2=Lopez |first2=Lindsey Hunter |title=50 Movies for Preschoolers & Toddlers — That Aren't Too Scary |url=https://www.sheknows.com/parenting/slideshow/8668/best-movies-for-preschoolers/34 |website=SheKnows |access-date=June 15, 2022 |date=June 10, 2020 |archive-date=July 22, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230722012300/https://www.sheknows.com/parenting/slideshow/8668/best-movies-for-preschoolers/ |url-status=live }}</ref> "The Curse of Princess Ivy",<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sims |first1=Tony |title=GeekDad Giveaway: 'Sofia the First: The Curse of Princess Ivy' Surprise Pack |url=https://geekdad.com/2015/03/sofia-surprise-pack |website=GeekDad |access-date=June 15, 2022 |date=March 16, 2015 |archive-date=September 26, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220926232312/https://geekdad.com/2015/03/sofia-surprise-pack/ |url-status=live }}</ref> and the television film ''Once Upon a Princess''.<ref name="Nordyke">{{cite web |last1=Nordyke |first1=Kimberly |title=Disney Junior's 'Sofia the First' Renewed for Second Season |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/disney-juniors-sofia-first-renewed-425965 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |access-date=June 15, 2022 |date=March 5, 2013 |archive-date=June 15, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220615025726/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/disney-juniors-sofia-first-renewed-425965/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
==Reception== ===Critical reception=== ''Sofia the First'' has received generally positive reviews. In May 2020, ''Time Out'' named it one of the 30 best children's cartoons.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kryza |first1=Andy |last2=Valente |first2=Danielle |last3=Strand |first3=Oliver |title=The best kids' cartoons to stream right now |url=https://www.timeout.com/film/best-cartoons-for-kids-to-watch-now |website=Time Out |access-date=July 18, 2022 |date=May 8, 2020 |archive-date=July 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220720042355/https://www.timeout.com/film/best-cartoons-for-kids-to-watch-now |url-status=live }}</ref> The show's animation and music received praise. ''IndieWire''{{'s}} Greg Ehrbar commended the fluidity in the cinematography and computer animation;<ref name="Ehrbar">{{cite web |last1=Ehrbar |first1=Greg |title=DVD Review: Disney's Sofia The First |url=https://www.indiewire.com/2013/04/dvd-review-disneys-sofia-the-first-123091 |website=IndieWire |access-date=June 14, 2022 |language=en |date=April 11, 2013 |archive-date=June 14, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220614135502/https://www.indiewire.com/2013/04/dvd-review-disneys-sofia-the-first-123091/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Emily Ashby of Common Sense Media said the "crisp animation ... brings ... Sofia and a well-rounded supporting cast [to life]".<ref name="Ashby">{{cite web |last1=Ashby |first1=Emily |title=Sofia the First |url=https://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/sofia-the-first |publisher=Common Sense Media |access-date=June 14, 2022 |language=en |archive-date=July 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220701070132/https://www.commonsensemedia.org/tv-reviews/sofia-the-first |url-status=live }}</ref> The two praised the music as "lively" and "tuneful", respectively, with Ehrbar comparing the "lavishly orchestrated" score to that of a Disney animated feature.<ref name="Ehrbar" /><ref name="Ashby" />
Critics lauded the characters. Ashby referred to Sofia as a "[s]punky, well-rounded princess", praising her influence on other characters and requests for advice when needed. She also thought the supporting cast displayed positive traits, such as loyalty, honesty, and friendship.<ref name="Ashby" /> Matt Villano, who writes for Today, enjoyed the titular character's villager friends, whom he believe emulate real-life modern teenagers.<ref name="Villano">{{cite web |last1=Villano |first1=Matt |title=Dad's view: The one Disney princess I actually love |url=https://www.today.com/parents/sofia-first-dad-reviews-disney-junior-cartoon-i524606 |publisher=Today |access-date=June 14, 2022 |language=en |date=March 6, 2013 |archive-date=June 14, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220614135450/https://www.today.com/parents/sofia-first-dad-reviews-disney-junior-cartoon-i524606 |url-status=live }}</ref> Ashby and Villano were positive towards ''Sofia the First''{{'s}} themes.<ref name="Ashby" /><ref name="Villano" />
===U.S. television ratings=== According to Dade Hayes, the executive editor of trade publication ''Broadcasting & Cable'', the show was deemed "risky", as it mostly aims to entertain rather than educate.<ref name="nytimes hits" /> ''Sofia the First: Once Upon a Princess'' premiered on Disney Channel on November 18, 2012, garnering 8.17 million viewers (when the Live+7 ratings were tabulated), which made it the number one cable TV telecast of all time for kids 2–5 and girls 2–5. It also set a record for the number one preschool cable TV telecast ever in total viewers and for adults 18–49.<ref>{{cite web|last=Kondolojy|first=Amanda|title=Disney Channel's 'Sofia the First' Crowned #1 Cable TV Telecast Ever in Kids 2-5|url=http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2012/12/04/disney-channels-sofia-the-first-crowned-1-cable-tv-telecast-ever-in-kids-2-5/160372/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131104114203/http://tvbythenumbers.zap2it.com/2012/12/04/disney-channels-sofia-the-first-crowned-1-cable-tv-telecast-ever-in-kids-2-5/160372/|url-status=dead|archive-date=November 4, 2013|work=TV by the Numbers|access-date=December 4, 2012}}</ref> The January 2013 series premiere was watched by 2.7 million people, making it the second highest-rated weekday preschool cable debut since August 2000.{{efn|It was behind ''Mickey Mouse Clubhouse''{{'s}} premiere, which received 2.8 million viewers.<ref name="premiereratings" />}} It also became the highest-rated preschool show premiere categories of kids aged 2–5,{{efn|Tied with ''Doc McStuffins''{{'s}} premiere<ref name="premiereratings" />}} girls aged 2–5, adults aged 18–49, and women aged 18–49.<ref name="premiereratings">{{cite web |title=Disney Jr's 'Sofia The First' Premiere Tops Cable TV Ratings |url=https://deadline.com/2013/01/disney-jrs-sofia-the-first-premiere-tops-cable-tv-ratings-404239 |website=Deadline Hollywood |access-date=June 22, 2022 |date=January 14, 2013 |archive-date=June 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220622040010/https://deadline.com/2013/01/disney-jrs-sofia-the-first-premiere-tops-cable-tv-ratings-404239/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> By March 2013, ''Sofia the First'' was cable television's most-viewed preschool program; ''The New York Times'' described the show as "a monster-size new hit".<ref name="nytimes hits">{{cite web |last1=Barnes |first1=Brooks |last2=Chozick |first2=Amy |title=New Disney Characters Make It Big in TV's Preschool Playground |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/01/business/media/disney-junior-challenges-nick-jr-in-preschool-tv.html |website=The New York Times |access-date=June 22, 2022 |date=March 31, 2013 |archive-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617012550/https://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/01/business/media/disney-junior-challenges-nick-jr-in-preschool-tv.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2014, "The Curse of Princess Ivy" became the series second highest-rated telecast, garnering an average of approximately 4.7 million viewers. Across all television, it was the number one telecast for children and girls aged 2–5 at the time of broadcast.<ref name="Kissell">{{cite web |last1=Kissell |first1=Rick |title='Sofia the First' Special Scores in Ratings for Disney Channel |url=https://variety.com/2014/tv/ratings/sofia-the-first-special-scores-in-ratings-for-disney-channel-1201368269 |website=Variety |access-date=June 22, 2022 |date=December 2, 2014 |archive-date=June 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220622035756/https://variety.com/2014/tv/ratings/sofia-the-first-special-scores-in-ratings-for-disney-channel-1201368269/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
===Awards and nominations=== {|class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders" |+{{sronly|Awards and nominations received by Sofia the First}} ! scope="col"|Organization ! scope="col"|Year ! scope="col"|Category ! scope="col"|Recipient(s)/Nominee(s) ! scope="col"|Result ! class="unsortable"|{{Refh}} |- ! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="2"|Annie Awards | rowspan="2"| 2014 | Best General Audience Animated TV/Broadcast Production For Preschool Children | ''Sofia the First'' | {{won}} | rowspan="2"|{{centre|<ref>{{Cite web |date=February 1, 2014 |title=Annie Awards 2014: Complete list of winners and nominees |url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/moviesnow/la-et-mn-complete-list-of-2013-annie-award-noms-20131202-story.html |url-access=limited |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150609234307/https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/moviesnow/la-et-mn-complete-list-of-2013-annie-award-noms-20131202-story.html |archive-date=June 9, 2015 |access-date=June 6, 2022 |website=Los Angeles Times}}</ref>}} |- | Outstanding Achievement, Music in an Animated TV/Broadcast Production | {{sort name|Kevin|Kliesch|nolink=1}}, {{sort name|Craig|Gerber|dab=creator}}, and {{sort name|John|Kavanaugh}} | {{nom}} |- ! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="13"|Daytime Emmy Awards | rowspan="6"|2014 | Outstanding Pre-School Children's Animated Program | ''Sofia the First'' |{{nom}} | rowspan="6"|{{centre|<ref>{{cite web |title=Daytime Emmy Nominations: 'Young And The Restless' Leads With 26 Nominations |url=https://deadline.com/2014/05/daytime-emmy-awards-2014-nominations-full-list-722199 |website=Deadline Hollywood |access-date=June 6, 2022 |date=May 1, 2014 |archive-date=July 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220707053239/https://deadline.com/2014/05/daytime-emmy-awards-2014-nominations-full-list-722199/ |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Swift |first1=Andy |title=PBS Dominates 2014 Daytime Creative Emmy Awards — Full Winners List |url=https://tvline.com/2014/06/21/daytime-creative-emmy-award-winners-2014-full-list |website=TVLine |access-date=June 6, 2022 |date=June 21, 2014 |archive-date=August 9, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220809105949/https://tvline.com/2014/06/21/daytime-creative-emmy-award-winners-2014-full-list/ |url-status=live }}</ref>}} |- | Outstanding Writing in a Pre-School Animated Program | {{sort name|Doug|Cooney|nolink=1}}, {{sort name|Laurie|Israel|nolink=1}}, {{sort name|Erica|Rothschild|nolink=1}}, {{sort name|Rachel|Ruderman|nolink=1}}, and {{sort name|Craig|Gerber|dab=creator}} | {{nom}} |- | Outstanding Casting for an Animated Series or Special | {{sort name|Brian|Mathias|nolink=1}} | {{nom}} |- | Outstanding Music Direction and Composition | {{sort name|Kevin|Kliesch|nolink=1}} | {{nom}} |- | Outstanding Original Song | {{sort name|Craig|Gerber|dab=creator}} (lyrics) and {{sort name|John|Kavanaugh}} (lyrics and composition) (for "I Belong") | {{nom}} |- | Outstanding Original Song – Main Title and Promo | {{sort name|Craig|Gerber|dab=creator}} (lyrics) and {{sort name|John|Kavanaugh}} (lyrics and composition) | {{won}} |- | rowspan="2"|2015 | Outstanding Performer in an Animated Program | {{sort name|Megan|Mullally}} (for "The Enchanted Feast") | {{nom}} | {{centre|<ref>{{cite web |title=Daytime Emmy Awards 2015: Complete Winners List |url=https://www.thewrap.com/daytime-emmy-awards-2015-complete-winners-list |website=TheWrap |access-date=June 6, 2022 |date=April 26, 2015 |archive-date=July 12, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220712003516/https://www.thewrap.com/daytime-emmy-awards-2015-complete-winners-list/ |url-status=live }}</ref>}} |- | Outstanding Music Direction and Composition | {{sort name|Kevin|Kliesch|nolink=1}} | {{won}} |- | 2016 | Outstanding Casting for an Animated Series or Special | {{sort name|Brian|Mathias|nolink=1}} | {{nom}} | {{centre|<ref>{{cite press release |title=The National Academy of Television Arts & Science Announces the 43rd Daytime Emmy® Award Nominations |url=http://cdn.emmyonline.org/day_43rd_nominations.pdf |publisher=National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences |access-date=June 6, 2022}}</ref>}} |- | rowspan="2"|2017 | Outstanding Sound Mixing in a Preschool Animated Program | {{sort name|Timothy J.|Borquez|nolink=1}} and {{sort|Gotten, Nicholas|Nicholas Gotten III}} | {{won}} | rowspan="2"| {{centre|<ref>{{cite web |last1=Milligan |first1=Mercedes |title=2017 Daytime Emmy Award Winners |url=https://www.animationmagazine.net/events/2017-daytime-emmy-award-winners |website=Animation Magazine |access-date=June 6, 2022 |date=April 30, 2017 |archive-date=January 29, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220129065326/https://www.animationmagazine.net/events/2017-daytime-emmy-award-winners/ |url-status=live }}</ref>}} |- | Outstanding Music Direction and Composition | {{sort name|Kevin|Kliesch|nolink=1}} | {{nom}} |- | 2018 | Outstanding Music Direction and Composition | {{sort name|Kevin|Kliesch|nolink=1}} | {{nom}} |- | 2019 | Outstanding Original Song in a Children's or Animated Program | {{sort name|Craig|Gerber|dab=creator}} (lyrics) and {{sort name|John|Kavanaugh}} (composition) (for "For One and All") | {{nom}} | {{centre|<ref>{{cite press release |title=The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Announces Nominations for the 46th Annual Emmy® Awards |url=http://cdn.emmyonline.org/daytime-46th-nominations-release-with-credits-v05.pdf |publisher=National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences |access-date=June 6, 2022 |page=130 |archive-date=June 29, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190629155712/http://cdn.emmyonline.org/daytime-46th-nominations-release-with-credits-v05.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>}} |- ! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="2"|Primetime Emmy Awards | rowspan="1"| 2014 | Outstanding Music and Lyrics | {{sort name|Craig|Gerber|dab=creator}} (lyrics) and {{sort name|John|Kavanaugh}} (Composition) (for "Merroway Cove") | {{nom}} |- | rowspan="1"| 2015 | Outstanding Music Composition for a Limited Series, Movie, or Special (Original Dramatic Score) | {{sort name|Kevin|Kliesch|nolink=1}} (for "The Curse of Princess Ivy") | {{nom}} |- ! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="2"| Humanitas Prize | 2017 | Children's Animation | {{sort name|Laurie|Israel|nolink=1}} and {{sort name|Rachel|Ruderman|nolink=1}} (for "Dads and Daughters Day") | {{won}} | {{centre|<ref>{{cite web |last1=Patten |first1=Dominic |title='Hidden Figures', 'Hacksaw Ridge' & '13th' Among Humanitas Prize Winners |url=https://deadline.com/2017/02/2017-humanitas-prize-winners-hidden-figures-hacksaw-ridge-full-list-1201941954 |website=Deadline Hollywood |access-date=June 6, 2022 |date=February 22, 2017 |archive-date=May 24, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220524001800/https://deadline.com/2017/02/2017-humanitas-prize-winners-hidden-figures-hacksaw-ridge-full-list-1201941954/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>}} |- | 2018 | Children's Animation | {{sort name|Craig|Carlisle|nolink=1}} (for "The Crown of Blossoms") | {{nom}} | {{centre|<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sandberg |first1=Bryn |title=Humanitas Prize Finalists Announced for 2018 |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/humanitas-prize-finalists-announced-2018-1073693 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |access-date=June 6, 2022 |date=January 10, 2018 |archive-date=July 5, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220705171256/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/humanitas-prize-finalists-announced-2018-1073693/ |url-status=live }}</ref>}} |- ! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="2"| TCA Awards | 2016 | Outstanding Achievement in Youth Programming | ''Sofia the First'' | {{nom}} | {{centre|<ref>{{cite web |last1=Stanhope |first1=Kate |title='Mr. Robot' and 'The People v. O.J. Simpson' Top 2016 TCA Awards Nominations |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/2016-tca-awards-nominations-917045/outstanding-achievement-in-reality-programming |website=The Hollywood Reporter |access-date=June 6, 2022 |date=August 3, 2016 |archive-date=April 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230408062359/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lists/2016-tca-awards-nominations-917045/outstanding-achievement-in-reality-programming |url-status=live }}</ref>}} |- | 2018 | Outstanding Achievement in Youth Programming | ''Sofia the First'' | {{nom}} | {{centre|<ref>{{cite web |last1=Turchiano |first1=Danielle |title='Killing Eve,' 'Atlanta,' 'GLOW' Among 2018 TCA Award Nominees |url=https://variety.com/2018/tv/awards/2018-tca-awards-nominees-killing-eve-atlanta-the-marvelous-mrs-maisel-glow-1202850288 |website=Variety |access-date=June 6, 2022 |date=June 19, 2018 |archive-date=December 4, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221204190435/https://variety.com/2018/tv/awards/2018-tca-awards-nominees-killing-eve-atlanta-the-marvelous-mrs-maisel-glow-1202850288/ |url-status=live }}</ref>}} |- ! scope="rowgroup" rowspan="2"|Young Artist Awards | 2015 | Best Performance in a Voice-over Role – Young Actor | {{sort name|Joshua|Carlon|nolink=1}} | {{nom}} | {{centre|<ref>{{cite web |title=2015 Nominations & Results |url=http://youngartistawards.org/noms36x.html |publisher=Young Artist Foundation |access-date=June 6, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161119122003/http://youngartistawards.org/noms36x.html |archive-date=November 19, 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref>}} |- | 2019 | Best Performance in a Voice-over Role – Teen Artist | {{sort name|Nicolas|Cantu|nolink=1}} | {{nom}} | {{centre|<ref>{{cite web |title=Nominees 2019 |url=https://youngartistacademy.org/2019nominees |publisher=Young Artist Academy |access-date=June 6, 2022 |archive-date=October 21, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211021115344/https://youngartistacademy.org/2019nominees |url-status=live }}</ref>}} |}
===Controversy=== During a press tour in October 2012, a producer identified Sofia as a Latina.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.ew.com/article/2012/10/16/disney-princess-sofia-the-first-latina |magazine=Entertainment Weekly |date=16 October 2012 |first1=Emily |last1=Rome |title='Sofia the First': Disney's first Hispanic princess? |first2=Jamie |last2=Mitchell |quote=She is Latina, .. It's sort of a matter-of-fact situation rather than an overt thing.}}</ref> The announcement drew both praise and criticism from media outlets.<ref name="backlash" /> Latinos and fans saw it as a new milestone for Disney and lauded the choice of a light skin tone for a Latina character. Others were critical that she did not have any cultural signifiers or ethnic identity and believed a darker skin tone would better represent the Latina community.<ref name="backlash" /><ref name="Driscoll">{{cite web |last1=Driscoll |first1=Molly |title=Princess Sofia and Skinny Minnie: Disney characters suffer backlash |url=https://www.csmonitor.com/The-Culture/Family/Modern-Parenthood/2012/1023/Princess-Sofia-and-Skinny-Minnie-Disney-characters-suffer-backlash |website=Christian Science Monitor |access-date=June 19, 2022 |date=October 23, 2012 |url-access=limited |archive-date=June 19, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220619113804/https://www.csmonitor.com/The-Culture/Family/Modern-Parenthood/2012/1023/Princess-Sofia-and-Skinny-Minnie-Disney-characters-suffer-backlash |url-status=live }}</ref> A Disney Junior general manager later clarified: "Sofia is a fairytale girl who lives in a fairytale world. All our characters come from fantasy lands that may reflect elements of various cultures and ethnicities but none are meant to specifically represent those real world cultures".<ref>{{cite web|last1=Rodriguez|first1=Cindy|first2=Nancy|last2=Kanter|title=Disney producer 'misspoke': 'First Latina princess' isn't Latina|url=http://www.cnn.com/2012/10/25/showbiz/disney-sofia-not-latina|work=CNN|date=25 October 2012|access-date=October 25, 2012|archive-date=October 31, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121031020031/http://www.cnn.com/2012/10/25/showbiz/disney-sofia-not-latina/|url-status=live}}</ref> According to a Disney spokeswoman, Sofia has a mixed fairy-tale heritage; her mother and father are from Galdiz (which is based on Spain) and Freezenburg (which is based on Scandinavia), respectively.<ref name="backlash">{{cite web|last=Rodriguez|first=Cindy|title=Backlash for Disney's first Latina princess|url=http://www.cnn.com/2012/10/19/showbiz/disneys-first-latina-princess/|work=CNN|date=19 October 2012|access-date=October 22, 2012|archive-date=October 27, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121027052735/http://www.cnn.com/2012/10/19/showbiz/disneys-first-latina-princess/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |website=Huffington Post |url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/23/disney-princess-sofia-not-latina_n_2005288.html |title=Princess Sofia Is Not Latina, Says Disney |date=23 October 2012 |first1=Cavan |last1=Sieczkowski |first2=Nancy |last2=Kanter |quote=Sofia's mom comes from a fictitious land, Galdiz, which was inspired by Spain. |access-date=April 17, 2020 |archive-date=September 22, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170922231931/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/23/disney-princess-sofia-not-latina_n_2005288.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |website=Eonline |url=http://ca.eonline.com/news/356021/disney-backpedal-mouse-house-now-says-new-princess-sofia-is-not-latina-after-controversy-erupts |title=Disney Backpedal? Mouse House Now Says New Princess Sofia Is Not Latina After Controversy Erupts |date=22 October 2013 |first1=Peter |last1=Gicas |first2=Craig |last2=Gerber |quote=A mixed-heritage princess in a fairy-tale world. Her mother is originally from an enchanted kingdom inspired by Spain (Galdiz) and her birth father hailed from an enchanted kingdom inspired by Scandinavia. |access-date=October 8, 2015 |archive-date=July 22, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230722012239/https://www.eonline.com/news/356021/disney-backpedal-mouse-house-now-says-new-princess-sofia-is-not-latina-after-controversy-erupts |url-status=live }}</ref>
==Other media== ===Spin-offs and sequels=== ====''Elena of Avalor''==== {{main|Elena and the Secret of Avalor{{!}}''Elena and the Secret of Avalor''|Elena of Avalor{{!}}''Elena of Avalor''}} Following the controversy regarding Sofia's ethnicity, Gerber noticed the demand for a Latina princess; the idea "bubbled in [his] mind" and partially inspired the creation of the spin-off series ''Elena of Avalor'', which stars a Latina princess as its titular character.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Williams |first1=Angela |title=10 Things You Should Know About Disney's Newest Princess, 'Elena of Avalor' |url=https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/10-things-disneys-newest-princess-elena-avalor/story?id=40716449 |website=ABC News |access-date=June 21, 2022 |language=en |date=July 21, 2016 |archive-date=May 24, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220524144647/https://abcnews.go.com/Entertainment/10-things-disneys-newest-princess-elena-avalor/story?id=40716449 |url-status=live }}</ref> She is introduced in ''Sofia the First'' special episode ''Elena and the Secret of Avalor'', in which Sofia discovers that Elena has been trapped inside her amulet for decades because of an invasion of Avalor by the evil sorceress Shuriki. Sofia and her family travel to Avalor to free Elena and restore the kingdom.<ref>{{cite web |title=Disney Junior Launching 'Sofia The First' Spinoff 'Elena Of Avalor' In 2016 |url=https://deadline.com/2015/01/sofia-the-first-spinoff-elena-of-avalor-disney-junior-animated-series-1201362375 |website=Deadline Hollywood |access-date=June 21, 2022 |date=January 29, 2015 |archive-date=April 22, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220422095539/https://deadline.com/2015/01/sofia-the-first-spinoff-elena-of-avalor-disney-junior-animated-series-1201362375/ |url-status=dead }}</ref>
====''Royal Magic''==== {{main|Sofia the First: Royal Magic}} In November 2022, it was reported that Gerber had expanded his overall development deal with Disney Branded Television, under which he began developing a sequel series to ''Sofia the First''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hailu |first=Selome |date=November 17, 2022 |title='Sofia the First' Spinoff in Development at Disney Branded Television in Extension of Craig Gerber's Overall Deal |url=https://variety.com/2022/tv/news/sofia-the-first-spinoff-disney-branded-television-1235435324/ |access-date=December 1, 2022 |website=Variety |archive-date=November 30, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221130210442/https://variety.com/2022/tv/news/sofia-the-first-spinoff-disney-branded-television-1235435324/ |url-status=live}}</ref>
In August 2024, Disney Jr. announced that the sequel series, titled ''Sofia the First: Royal Magic'', had been greenlit for a 2026 premiere.<ref>{{cite press release |title=Disney Jr. Greenlights "Sofia the First: Royal Magic," Sequel to Emmy- and Humanitas-Winning Hit Series "Sofia the First" |url=http://www.thefutoncritic.com/news/2024/08/15/disney-jr-greenlights-sofia-the-first-royal-magic-sequel-to-emmy-and-humanitas-winning-hit-series-sofia-the-first-929312/20240815disney01/ |publisher=Disney Branded Television |via=The Futon Critic |date=August 15, 2024}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Petski |first=Denise |date=August 8, 2025 |title=New 'Cars' & 'Marvel's Avengers' Series Ordered by Disney Jr.; 'Mickey Mouse Clubhouse+' Renewed for Two More Seasons; Castings & Premiere Dates |url=https://deadline.com/2025/08/disney-jr-slate-new-series-renewals-premiere-dates-1236481718/ |access-date=December 16, 2025 |website=Deadline}}</ref>
In February 2026, the series was given a premiere window of May 2026,<ref name="Milligan2026SofiaRoyalMagic" /> with an official premiere date of May 25 announced in April 2026. The first eight episodes are scheduled to be released on Disney+ the following day, May 26, 2026.<ref name="Milligan2026SofiaRoyalMagic2" />
The series will feature Auliʻi Cravalho reprising her role as Moana<ref>{{cite press release |last= |first= |date=April 2, 2026 |title='Sofia The First: Royal Magic' Premieres May 25 On Disney Jr. With The First 8 Episodes Streaming Next Day On Disney+ |url=https://press.disneyplus.com/news/disney-plus-sofia-the-first-royal-magic-premiere-date |location= |publisher=Disney |agency=Disney+ |access-date=April 4, 2026 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260402194709/https://press.disneyplus.com/news/disney-plus-sofia-the-first-royal-magic-premiere-date |archive-date=April 2, 2026 |url-status=live |quote=...It was also announced today that Moana, Rapunzel, Jasmine, Cinderella, Aurora and Elena of Avalor will make special appearances throughout the series, offering guidance, wisdom and support when Sofia needs it the most...This marks the first time that Moana will interact with Sofia. Many of the classic Disney Princesses appeared alongside Sofia in the original series. Auli‘i Cravalho reprises her role as Moana}}</ref> and Aimee Carrero as Princess Elena Castillo Flores.<ref>{{Cite Instagram |last=Gerber |first=Craig |author-link=Craig Gerber (creator) |user=craigsgerber |postid=DWrsMnqEpJ9 |date=April 3, 2026 |title=Finally the news is out - Princess Elena will reunite with Sofia in #SofiaTheFirst #RoyalMagic! Which is particularly amazing because it means I get to work with the ultra-talented @aimeecarrero again - who fortunately had time in between all her movies and TV shows to stop by the studio and belt out a few tunes! ¡Viva Elena! ♥️ |script-title= |trans-title= |language=en |location= |access-date=April 4, 2026 |link=https://www.instagram.com/p/DWrsMnqEpJ9/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/Thg7m |archive-date=April 4, 2026 |ref=}}</ref> Recurring appearances by Rapunzel, Cinderella, Aurora, and Jasmine were also announced.<ref>{{cite web|last=Milligan|first=Mercedes|url=https://www.animationmagazine.net/2026/04/sofia-the-first-royal-magic-conjures-new-theme-song-key-art/|title='Sofia the First: Royal Magic' Conjures New Theme Song & Key Art|website=Animation Magazine|date=April 2, 2026|access-date=April 4, 2026|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20260404010200/https://www.animationmagazine.net/2026/04/sofia-the-first-royal-magic-conjures-new-theme-song-key-art/|archive-date=April 4, 2026|url-status=live}}</ref>
===Merchandising=== In January 2013, Disney Press published a hardcover picture book based on the series, which entered ''The New York Times'' Best Seller list, with approximately 450,000 copies sold.<ref name="Raugust" /> Most mainstream merchandise was first released from March to June of that year; the products immediately became best-sellers. At Toys "R" Us, the show's merchandise proved to be some of the most popular toys from June to September.<ref name="Block">{{cite web |last1=Block |first1=Alex Ben |title=Why the Fart Blaster Is Hollywood's Hottest Toy of the Summer |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lifestyle/lifestyle-news/despicable-me-2-fart-blaster-609108 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |access-date=July 21, 2022 |date=August 22, 2013 |archive-date=July 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220721035503/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/lifestyle/lifestyle-news/despicable-me-2-fart-blaster-609108/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In 2013, merchandise related to ''Sofia the First'' and two other Disney Junior shows—''Jake and the Neverland Pirates'' and ''Doc McStuffins''—generated retails sales of $1.8 billion globally.<ref name="Raugust">{{cite web |last1=Raugust |first1=Karen |title=From 'Doc McStuffins' to 'Sofia the First,' Disney Junior Drives Book Sales |url=https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-industry-news/article/60357-from-doc-mcstuffins-to-sofia-the-first-disney-junior-drives-book-sales.html |website=Publishers Weekly |access-date=July 21, 2022 |language=en |date=December 13, 2013 |archive-date=July 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220721035756/https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-industry-news/article/60357-from-doc-mcstuffins-to-sofia-the-first-disney-junior-drives-book-sales.html |url-status=live }}</ref> The series was part of the ''Disney Junior – Live on Stage!'' at Disney's Hollywood Studios as well as Disney California Adventure.<ref name="Nordyke" /> ''Disney Junior Dance Party on Tour'', a tour featuring a 90-minute concert, also includes ''Sofia the First''.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Nordyke |first1=Kimberly |title='Disney Junior Dance Party on Tour' Adds 50 More Shows (Exclusive) |url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/disney-junior-dance-party-tour-adds-50-more-shows-1104865 |website=The Hollywood Reporter |access-date=July 21, 2022 |date=April 23, 2018 |archive-date=July 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220721035502/https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/disney-junior-dance-party-tour-adds-50-more-shows-1104865/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
==See also== {{Portal|Television|United States|Disney|Cartoon}} * Disney Princess
==Notes== {{Notelist}}
==References== {{Reflist|30em}}
==External links== {{Wikiquote}} * {{Official website|http://disneyjunior.disney.com/sofia-the-first}} * {{IMDb title|2136138|Sofia the First}}
{{Annie Award for Best Animated Television Production for Preschool}} {{Disney Princess}} {{Disney Junior}} {{Disney Television Animation}}
Category:Sofia the First Category:2010s American animated television series Category:2010s preschool education television series Category:2012 American animated television series debuts Category:2018 American television series endings Category:American children's animated adventure television series Category:American children's animated comedy television series Category:American children's animated fantasy television series Category:American children's animated musical television series Category:American preschool education television series Category:Animated crossover television series Category:Animated preschool education television series Category:Animated television series about children Category:Animated television series about magic (supernatural) Category:Animated television series about princesses Category:Animated television series set in fictional countries Category:Annie Award–winning television shows Category:Cel-shaded animation Category:Disney Jr. original programming Category:English-language American television shows Category:Television series about witchcraft Category:Television series by Disney Television Animation