A scorned sorceress shows a gentler side in a new clip from Disney Television Animation. Maleficent arrives in the Disney Jr. series Sofia the First: Royal Magic this month, and when the moment calls for it, she lowers her guard instead of casting a curse.
A Surprise Guest at Wassailia
The Sleeping Beauty (1959) antagonist debuts in “Holiday at Charmswell,” the series' holiday special, alongside her old nemesis, Princess Aurora. The story begins when Sofia (Ariel Winter) and Aurora confront Maleficent after she turns up at a festive Wassailia celebration.
The episode brings back familiar faces and adds new ones. Sofia's pet puppy-unicorn, Pepper (Nate Torrence), appears, as do her friends Layla (Mela Pietropaolo), Zane (Kai Harris), and Camila (Aaliyah Magcasi).
The Moment She Softens
In a clip from the episode, a clearly upset Maleficent questions Sofia and Aurora about why she is there. Everything shifts when Miss Nettle (Julie Nathanson) apologizes for not inviting her to the celebration in the first place.
“I don't know what to say,” Maleficent responds.
The Thinking Behind the Episode
Craig Gerber, creator and executive producer of Sofia the First: Royal Magic, said the team had long wanted to bring in a villain after so many seasons of Disney Princesses.
“After years of bringing classic Disney Princesses into Sofia's world, it was exciting to finally incorporate a classic Disney Villain,” Gerber told The Hollywood Reporter. “Weaving Maleficent into the story of Miss Nettle, a former villain who now runs Sofia's school, not only made for an entertaining holiday episode but also enabled us to address what seems to be Maleficent's core reason for her evil ways — not being invited to a party.”
Where and When To Watch
“Holiday at Charmswell” premieres on Disney Jr. on Thanksgiving Day, November 26.
A Fast-Rising Spinoff
Sofia the First: Royal Magic is a spinoff of the original Disney Jr. series Sofia the First. It premiered in May and has climbed into the top ten in viewership among girls ages two to five. Overall watch time is up 77% compared with the original series.
Which Maleficent appearance in the history of Disney is your favorite? Let Disney Fanatic know in the comments!
