Netflix’s Captain Planet release date is a big talking point as the cult classic animated series heads into live-action. Originally airing from 1990 to 1996, Captain Planet and the Planeteers focused on five teenagers combating environmental crises with the help of superhero Captain Planet. The live-action adaptation is currently in development at Netflix, produced by Berlanti Productions, Appian Way, and Warner Bros. Television.
What is the Captain Planet release date estimate?
Netflix’s Captain Planet release date estimate is mid-to-late 2026 to early 2027.
This estimate is based on the series currently being in active development, with a writer attached and production companies committed. Tara Hernandez, known for Mrs. Davis, The Big Bang Theory, and Young Sheldon, is writing the adaptation.
No filming has begun, and Netflix has not issued any formal production or release timeline. Considering the current development stage and standard production timelines for Netflix originals, a release by late 2026 appears likely if pre-production progresses steadily in 2025.
Captain Planet news and updates
Netflix has secured the rights to develop Captain Planet in a competitive bid.
The project comes from Greg Berlanti’s Berlanti Productions and Leonardo DiCaprio’s Appian Way, with both parties serving as executive producers. Berlanti has extensive experience with superhero content, including building the Arrowverse for The CW. This marks his second animated-to-live-action project for Netflix, after the Scooby-Doo origin series.
The show will adapt the environmental themes of the original cartoon. Gaia, the spirit of Earth, brings together five teenagers from around the world, each with a power tied to an element—earth, fire, wind, water, and heart. By combining their powers, they summon Captain Planet to help combat global environmental threats. The original series addressed issues like pollution, deforestation, HIV/AIDS, and bullying.
The expected cast has not been announced, but producers include Greg Berlanti, Sarah Schechter, Leigh London Redman, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Jennifer Davisson. Jono Matt is also attached as a producer, though Glen Powell, who was previously involved with a film version, is not part of this series.
