When Will ‘Doc McStuffins’ Season 5 Premiere? Disney Junior Announces Renewal After Cancellation Rumors

Parents and children rejoice! Disney Junior has announced that the popular series, “Doc McStuffins,” will return for a fifth season. The series, which airs daily on Disney Channel and Disney Junior will air its fifth season beginning in 2018.

“‘Doc McStuffins’ is an unmistakable example of our commitment to powerful storytelling that enriches and enlightens kids," said Nancy Kanter, Executive VP and General Manager at Disney Junior Worldwide. “I can think of no other children's television show in recent history that has touched as many lives and made the kind of impact around the world that Doc has. Our viewers have forged a deep connection with this series and are very vocal about how strongly they believe in these characters.”

A top 10 preschool cable TV series since its 2012 premiere, “Doc McStuffins” follows Doctor Dottie “Doc” McStuffins, a young African-American girl who aspires to be a doctor like her mother. The series has been praised for its concept and portrayal of African-Americans.

This past summer, rumors began to spread about the series facing cancellation after Season 5 remained unannounced. With many parents being fans of the series, the hashtag #RenewDocMcStuffins began to spread and gained momentum when comedian W. Kamau Bell tweeted about it.

Parents and siblings began pleading with Disney Junior to bring the series back, with many Twitter users sharing their stories about the show inspiring the children in their lives.

The series is not only popular on TV. According to a New York Times article, “Doc McStuffins” merchandise brought in nearly $500 million in sales in 2013, making it the best-selling toy line based on an African-American character. But it’s not just young African-American girls who are fans, the character also has crossover appeal.

“The kids who are of color see her as an African-American girl, and that’s really big for them,” said show creator Chris Nee. “And I think a lot of other kids don’t see her color, and that’s wonderful as well.”