Disney reveals more details about its first Latina princess, Elena of Avalor

The Walt Disney Co. announced earlier this year that it would introduce its first Latina princess, Elena of Avalor, this summer. Her debut is planned for a special episode of Disney Junior’s “Sofia The First” and then will be followed by her own show later in the summer on Disney Channel.

Recently, Disney released more details about its newest member of the royal family. Here’s what we know so far:

** Princess Elena is a bold, caring, funny and clever 16-year-old who is ascendant to the throne in the fairytale kingdom of Avalor.

** She saves her kingdom from an evil sorceress and must now learn to rule with the support of her appointed Grand Council and some magical friends by her side.

** Elena’s adventures will highlight the importance of family and family traditions.

** Elena’s character was inspired by diverse Latin cultures and folklore.

** The Latina princess will be voiced by Aimee Carrero (ABC Family’s “Young & Hungry”).

What’s new? Oh My Disney has revealed more of Princess Elena’s back story:

“Princess Elena’s journey began long ago when her parents and kingdom were taken from her by the evil sorceress, Shuriki. Elena bravely faced the sorceress to protect her little sister, Princess Isabel, and grandparents but in the process, her magical amulet pulled her inside its enchanted jewel, saving her life but imprisoning her at the same time. Decades later, Princess Sofia of Enchancia discovers the truth about the amulet she has worn since joining her royal family and sets out to restore Elena to her human form and help her return to the kingdom of Avalor.”

The Disney website also revealed more characters in the series:

“While Elena is the rightful heir to the throne, she is only age 16 so she will rule Avalor with the help of a Grand Council comprised of her Grandfather Tito, Grandmother Cici and Royal Advisor, Duke Esteban. With some magical friends by her side — Mateo, a wizard-in-training, and Skylar, a magical flying creature — Princess Elena’s further adventures will lead her to understand that her new role requires thoughtfulness, resilience and compassion, the traits of all truly great leaders.”

“Elena of Avalor” stories are created for children ages 2 to 7 and “will be guided by an established curriculum that nurtures multiple areas of child development: physical, emotional, social and cognitive; thinking and creative skills, as well as moral and ethical development.”

The Disney Princesses will welcome Elena to Walt Disney World in August, and families can see her in person at the Magic Kingdom. She also will visit Disney California Adventure in Anaheim beginning this fall.

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