Tetsuya Nomura Teases Involvement in Kingdom Hearts Anime Series, Tells Fans to Let Their 'Imagination Run Wild' | D23 2026
Kingdom Hearts creator Tetsuya Nomura has one message for fans when it comes to its mysterious new Disney+ anime series: "Please let your imagination run wild."
The Square Enix and Final Fantasy veteran shared a message with excited fans on X/Twitter after the crossover series made a surprise appearance at last night's D23 2026 Disney Entertainment Showcase. Its presence came not only with a first look at how the next mainline installment in the franchise will incorporate the world of Pixar's Coco but also a teaser for a new Kingdom Hearts series coming to Disney+.
Unfortunately, the big reveal shared little about how the anime project will actually fit into Kingdom Hearts' infamously tangled timeline. For now, all fans have to go off of are a few words from Disney Kids & Family president Ayo Davis and some ethereal art featuring what appears to be a new Keyblade-wielding character. Where Nomura could have intervened to clear the air, he instead chose to encourage speculation from those who are no doubt already spinning theories.
"Production of a Kingdom Hearts animated series has been confirmed," Nomura's message said (via Google Translate). "I imagine this sudden announcement came as a surprise. You are likely wondering what the series will be about. While I cannot share specific details just yet, I have been holding close consultations with the scenario team—and the art team, when necessary—and we have even created new character designs specifically for this project.
"I cannot say anything more at this moment, but the single piece of key art released serves as a hint. Please let your imagination run wild as you await further updates."
Filling long waits with theories is something Kingdom Hearts fans are especially skilled at. Outside of the odd spinoff project, the franchise has seen long gaps between releases. Kingdom Hearts 3, for example, launched a brutal 13 years after Kingdom Hearts 2. By the time Kingdom Hearts 4 reaches its recently announced 2027 release window, it will have been around eight years since the last numbered entry – and that's if there are no delays.
The Kingdom Hearts anime series, however, doesn't actually have a release date – or even a window – for fans to mark on their calendars. The art only tells viewers that it's "coming soon" to Disney+.
"Kingdom Hearts has captivated gamers everywhere with its unique blend of adventure and imagination," Davis said following the reveal. "There’s something really exciting about taking a world fans have spent years exploring through the games and bringing it to life in a completely new way. And with a creative team that is working closely with the legendary Tetsuya Nomura, our new series will be unmistakably Kingdom Hearts, while giving fans a whole new way to experience the world they love."
It's unclear when we'll learn more about the show, but there is a chance we get some details later today. Disney will soon host its Deep Dive into Kingdom Hearts panel as part of this year's D23. We'll be keeping track of all of the biggest updates here. For more, you can see how Kingdom Hearts 4 reappeared for a Nintendo Direct earlier this year. You can also see why Disney Animation isn't writing off a movie based on the series just yet.
Michael Cripe is a freelance writer with IGN. He's best known for his work at sites like The Pitch, The Escapist, and OnlySP. Be sure to give him a follow on Bluesky (@mikecripe.bsky.social) and Twitter (@MikeCripe).