Hey A.J! Preschool Favorite Returns in 2026 – Everything to Know About the New Series

Families looking for fresh, imaginative programming in early 2026 have a brand-new reason to tune in to Disney Jr. and Disney+. The official trailer for “Hey A.J!” Season 1 has arrived, confirming that the beloved world created by Martellus Bennett is officially jumping from the page to the screen. With a talented cast, celebrity guest voices, and a fun-filled episode marathon planned for launch week, this new preschool series is shaping up to be one of Disney’s most promising additions for young audiences.

Here is a complete breakdown of the show’s premiere plans, story details, and what viewers can expect when it debuts this January.

What Is Hey A.J! About?

At its heart, Hey A.J! is a celebration of childhood imagination.

The series follows a cheerful and highly creative young girl named A.J., who lives with her parents and best friend Jessie. Accompanied by her loyal stuffed-bunny sidekick Theo, A.J. has a remarkable ability to transform ordinary everyday situations into extraordinary adventures simply by using her big, colorful imagination.

Inspired by the real-life experiences of former Super Bowl champion Martellus Bennett, the show is adapted from his popular children’s book franchise. The story encourages creativity, problem solving, friendship, and emotional growth – all told through lighthearted comedy and plenty of music-driven fun.

Disney has described the program as a “whimsical and music-filled family comedy,” and the trailer leans fully into that description. It’s playful, energetic, and perfectly aimed at preschoolers who love to play pretend.

Premiere Date and Release Plans

Unlike many streaming-first originals, Hey A.J! will launch with a true event-style rollout.

Disney Branded Television has set the official premiere date for the show on:

• Tuesday, January 13, 2026 on Disney Jr.

To kick things off in a big way, Disney will air a marathon of the first seven episodes from 7:00 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. EST/PST. That gives parents a full morning block of new content for kids to enjoy right out of the gate.

Then, almost immediately after the TV launch:

• The same batch of episodes arrives for streaming on Disney+ on Wednesday, January 14, 2026

Additional episodes are scheduled to debut later in the year, making this just the first taste of A.J.’s expanding animated universe.

Main Voice Cast

One of the strongest hooks for the series is its impressive lineup of performers.

The show stars:

• Amari McCoy as A.J.

• Martellus Bennett as Marty, A.J.’s father

• Jhené Aiko as Siggi, A.J.’s mother

• Juliet Donenfeld as Jessie, A.J.’s best friend

• Innocent Ekakitie as Jazz

• David Mitchell as Theo, the stuffed bunny

In addition, GRAMMY Award winner Meghan Trainor has a recurring role as Jessie’s mom, adding extra musical flair to the production.

This mix of professional voice talent and real-world celebrity performers gives the show a lively, authentic feel that stands out in the preschool animation space.

Celebrity Guest Voice Lineup

Disney is going all-in on guest appearances.

The first season will feature special voices from well-known names across entertainment, music, and science, including:

• Cristo Fernández

• Bootsy Collins

• Kate Miccuci

• Maulik Pancholy

• Maulik Pancholy

• Lena Waithe

• Retired NASA astronaut Leland Melvin

Bringing in figures like a real NASA astronaut and funk legend Bootsy Collins signals how broad the series’ appeal is meant to be. It’s not just a cartoon – it’s an educational and cultural mashup designed to introduce kids to exciting real-life heroes.

The Creative Team Behind the Series

Behind the camera, the show has serious pedigree.

Hey A.J! is executive produced by:

• Martellus Bennett

• Jeff “Swampy” Marsh

• Michael Hodges

It is produced by Surfing Giant Studios in association with Disney Jr. Education & Inclusion, with Surfing Giant Studios overseeing animation production.

The involvement of Disney’s Education & Inclusion division is key. The series is intentionally crafted to reflect diverse families and experiences, while still keeping things fun and accessible for very young viewers.

Why This Show Matters

Preschool television often plays it safe. This one doesn’t.

Hey A.J! puts creativity front and center at a time when children’s programming increasingly leans toward formula. Instead of teaching kids just to sit and watch, it encourages them to imagine, explore, ask questions, and see the magic in their own everyday lives.

That kind of message is timeless – and badly needed.

Where to Watch Hey A.J! – Streaming Guide

• TV Debut: Disney Jr. – January 13, 2026

• Streaming: Disney+ – January 14, 2026

• Initial Episodes Available: First seven episodes (launch week)

• More Episodes: Arriving later in 2026

Parents can stream the episodes anytime on Apple TV devices, smart TVs, tablets, and phones using the Disney+ app.

Based on its trailer, cast, and launch strategy, Hey A.J! looks like exactly what Disney claims: a warm, funny, inclusive preschool series powered by imagination and music. The show is clearly built to become a new favorite alongside classics like Bluey and Mickey Mouse Funhouse.

For families with young kids, January 14 can’t come fast enough.