Disney is once again rebooting something they already own, but the platform has not been named. This time it’s going to be ‘Zorro’ done in a “telenovela style” but with “contemporary characters and relationships.”

The new show is being executive produced by Gary Marsh, Creative Executive at Disney Branded Television and will star Wilmer Valderrama . John Gertz will be executive producing with the rights holders Zorro Productions for this “reimagining.” Frankly, when most people see “reimagining” they immediately tune out.

If you already weren’t concerned about the pop culture icon, here’s what their plans are according to Ayo Davis, President of Disney Branded Television:

“We’re reimagining this Disney classic as a compelling period piece, set in Pueblo de Los Angeles, but told in a very modern telenovela style — with richly drawn contemporary characters and relationships set against the action, drama, suspense and humor of the original, iconic Zorro. Wilmer shares our commitment to reflect the interesting and rich diversity of the human experience and we look forward to delivering a culturally relevant and entertaining story with definitional characters that will connect with our viewers for generations to come.”

So it’s set in the old time, but the characters are “contemporary” with “contemporary relationships” and reflect “culturally relevant” stories.

Valderrama offered the following statement:

“Growing up, Zorro was the one character that made me, as a Latino, feel like I could be a hero. As an adult and a storyteller, I have a responsibility in the stories that I help bring to life. To partner with Gary and Disney to bring Zorro back into the family after 60 years and be a part of the legacy for other children to know they too can be the heroes of their own stories is a dream come true.”

I’m totally on board for more Zorro. I’m just very concerned when I hear “reimagining” because that is usually not a good thing, especially if they are leading with statements about diversity.

Those shows tend to equate “diversity” with “stereotype” and the show tries so hard to push “contemporary ideologies” that the writing and overall show becomes secondary to narrative.

If they just do a good show that pushes good writing and characters first, yet happens to be very “diverse” and “contemporary” it usually turns out good. They are already leading with telling us how “contemporary” it is– makes me fear the worst.

That being said, I hope they don’t ruin Zorro. They already “reimagined” Home Alone and animated films as live-action films that have not turned out that great. Maybe they can “reimagine” Zorro full circle so it’s actually good. I sure hope so. I love Zorro.

Source: The Hollywood Reporter