Actress and producer Quinta Brunson is developing and set to star in a new feature film adaptation centered on the cartoon icon Betty Boop, ABC confirmed on May 20, 2026.
The upcoming movie marks the first starring role for the character in a theatrical film since her debut era in the 1930s.
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The narrative is set to trace the origin and evolution of the animated figure through the perspective of her creator, Max Fleischer.
Story and Creative Team
According to the official logline, the project examines the relationship between art and the artist as Fleischer navigates the pressures of creating one of the world's first animated icons.
The story unfolds as the character begins to take on a life of her own.
Brunson is producing the project through her banner, Fifth Chance Productions, in partnership with Mark Fleischer of Fleischer Studios.
Development operations for Fifth Chance Productions are being overseen by Erin Wehrenberg.
"Betty Boop is one of our nation's most beloved cartoon characters, yet somehow still remains pleasantly niche.
She has had a quiet but undeniable impact on culture for nearly a century," said Quinta Brunson, Producer and Actress.
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The producer noted that a meeting with Mark Fleischer about his grandfather's creation revealed a deeper story that could be explored in a refreshing, subversive, and timeless manner.
"After Erin and I met with Mark and learned more about his grandfather's creation of Betty, I realized there was a much deeper story to tell.
One that could be explored in a way that feels refreshing, subversive, and timeless, much like Betty herself," said Quinta Brunson, Producer and Actress.
The estate representative indicated immediate enthusiasm for the creative direction when the pitch was initially presented. "I was breath-taken," said Mark Fleischer, Fleischer Studios.
The partnership highlights how the lead actress reflects the core traits of the original animated star, bridging the historical gap between the creator and the modern adaptation.
"Quinta so embodies Betty's love of life, intelligence, humor, sassiness and compassion that the relationship between her as Betty and Max burst into life at its mere mention," said Mark Fleischer, Fleischer Studios.
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The character originally emerged from the Talkartoons series by Fleischer Studios as an independent female movie star of her era.
