“Gracie’s Corner,” a beloved animated series that prioritizes Black representation, will be coming to Disney+.
Javoris Hollingsworth was a tenure-track chemistry professor who left his position to start “Gracie’s Corner,” with his wife, Arlene Gordon-Hollingsworth, a licensed psychologist in Texas who was also a tenure-track professor, according to their LinkedIn profiles. The YouTube series launched in 2020. As AFROTECH™ previously reported, their daughter, Graceyn “Gracie” Hollingsworth, inspired the idea. They believed there was a lack of representation for children’s programming channels.
“I think a big part of it is that it was filling the void that was missing,” Arlene previously told AFROTECH™. “…It’s something that families can enjoy together. Parents don’t feel guilty about letting their children watch it because it does provide educational content. It’s fun. It’s learning content, and then there’s representation — Black and brown children at the forefront, and it’s intentional. We’re not afterthoughts. We’re the main characters, and so I think that’s a big thing.”
Since its inception, “Gracie’s Corner” has received several NAACP Image Awards, including for Outstanding Children’s Program and Outstanding Animated Series. On YouTube, “Gracie’s Corner” has 6.3 million subscribers, with its videos viewed millions of times, including one titled “Veggie Dance Remix ft. 2Rare” racking up 86 million views alone.
Its most recent video is about naming the countries of Africa.
The Hollingsworths previously shared in a 2023 interview with AFROTECH™ that they aspired to have a greater presence in the streaming industry and were interested in opportunities with various networks.
Now, a 2026 press release states that global linear and streaming rights for “Gracie’s Corner” have been acquired by Disney, bringing the show to both Disney Jr. and Disney+ alongside a lineup that includes “Bluey,” “Marvel’s Spidey and his Amazing Friends,” “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse,” and more.
“Years ago, I walked away from a tenure-track chemistry professorship to bet on a dream — a children’s brand built in our home, rooted in faith, family, and diverse representation,” Javoris said in a LinkedIn post. “Today, that dream has a new home. ‘Gracie’s Corner’ is coming to Disney Jr. and Disney+. To every parent, educator, and child who sang along or shared a video — this is for you. We’re just getting started and excited for this new partnership!”
Arlene expressed, per the press release:
“What began as our family’s passion for creating fun, educational content has grown beyond our wildest dreams. Seeing children and families sing, dance, learn and create lasting memories together through our music is the heart of our mission. We are honored to partner with Disney to continue bringing joyful stories to families around the world. We’re excited about what we can build together and the impact these stories can have on the next generation.”
More than 120 shorts and 18 themed compilations will be released on the aforementioned platforms.
“‘Gracie’s Corner’ reflects so much of what families already love about our preschool lineup – music, heart, playful learning, and characters that kids want to engage with again and again,” Disney Branded Television President Ayo Davis said in the press release. “The series brings a vibrant, music-driven world that encourages kids to sing, dance and learn, and we’re proud to introduce it to even more young fans around the world on Disney+ and Disney Jr.”
“Gracie’s Corner” will launch on Disney+ on June 15, according to ABC7 New York.

