Quinta Brunson is bringing one of animation’s most famous characters back to the big screen. The Emmy-winning creator of Abbott Elementary is developing and starring in a new live action Betty Boop film.
The project will not follow the usual cartoon storyline. Instead, the film will explore the relationship between Betty Boop and her creator, Max Fleischer. The story will examine how one of animation’s earliest female stars became a cultural icon.
According to reports, Brunson’s production company, Fifth Chance Productions, is partnering with Fleischer Studios on the project. The film is currently in development.
Betty Boop Film Gives Quinta Brunson a Powerful Creative Role
This project places Brunson at the center of both the creative and acting process. She will not only play Betty Boop but also help shape the film behind the scenes.
The collaboration includes Mark Fleischer, the grandson of Betty Boop creator Max Fleischer. The project is also being overseen by Erin Wehrenberg, head of creative affairs at Fifth Chance Productions.
Brunson explained why the story caught her attention.
“Betty Boop is one of our nation’s most beloved cartoon characters,” Brunson said. “She has had a quiet but undeniable impact on culture for nearly a century.”
She also said the story offered a deeper look into the creation of the character and the man behind her rise.
Betty Boop’s Legacy Returns to Modern Hollywood
The new film arrives during renewed interest in Betty Boop. The character recently gained attention through stage productions and new adaptations aimed at younger audiences.
Created during the 1930s, Betty Boop became one of the first major animated female stars in Hollywood. She first appeared through the groundbreaking Talkartoons series produced by Fleischer Studios.
The upcoming movie marks Betty Boop’s first major theatrical starring role in decades. That history adds even more attention to Brunson’s involvement.
Meanwhile, Brunson continues to build an impressive career in entertainment. She became the first Black woman since 1981 to win the Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series. She also became the first solo Black woman to win Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series.
Quinta Brunson Continues Expanding Her Influence in Entertainment
Brunson’s growing influence stretches far beyond acting. Through her writing, producing, and directing work, she has become one of Hollywood’s most respected creative voices.
Industry observers believe the Betty Boop project could introduce the classic character to a new generation. At the same time, the film may also highlight the pressures creators face while building cultural icons.
Mark Fleischer praised Brunson’s vision for the movie.
“Quinta so embodies Betty’s love of life, intelligence, humor, sassiness and compassion,” he said.
The project also reflects a larger shift in Hollywood. More Black women are gaining creative control over major productions and shaping stories on their own terms.
For Brunson, this film represents another major step in a career already filled with groundbreaking achievements.
