A splashy piece of 2000s nostalgia is officially swimming back into view. Disney+ has ordered a pilot for Aquamarine, a new project based on the 2006 teen fantasy romantic comedy that starred Emma Roberts, JoJo and Sara Paxton.
The biggest hook for longtime fans? Roberts is not just involved behind the scenes. She is expected to reprise her role while also serving as an executive producer on the pilot.
Disney+ Orders Aquamarine Pilot Based on the 2006 Movie
The new Aquamarine pilot is being developed for Disney+ and Disney Channel, positioning it as both a streaming and family TV play. The original film followed two teenage best friends who discover a mermaid in their beach club pool, turning a summer crush into a magical coming-of-age adventure.
That mix of friendship, fantasy, romance and early-aughts charm helped Aquamarine become a sleepover-era favorite. Nearly two decades later, Disney appears ready to test whether the story can catch a new wave with today’s young viewers while also drawing in adults who grew up with the movie.
Emma Roberts Returns to Aquamarine as Star and Executive Producer
Emma Roberts will executive produce the Aquamarine pilot and is set to return on screen, giving the project a direct link to the original film. Roberts played Claire in the movie, one half of the best-friend duo who helps the mermaid Aquamarine navigate life on land.
Her involvement is a smart move for Disney. Roberts brings built-in nostalgia, a recognizable name, and a fan base that spans teen comedy, horror, and streaming audiences thanks to projects like American Horror Story, Scream Queens and Holidate.
Who Is Making the Aquamarine Disney+ Pilot?
The creative team includes several familiar names from the film and TV world. Elizabeth Allen Rosenbaum, who directed the original Aquamarine movie, is involved with the new pilot. Producer Susan Cartsonis is also attached, helping preserve a connection to the 2006 feature.
Sarah Watson, best known as the creator of The Bold Type, will write the pilot. That choice hints at a version of Aquamarine that may lean into friendship, identity, growing pains and emotional stakes, rather than simply remaking the movie beat for beat.
Is Aquamarine a Full Disney+ Series Yet?
Not yet. Disney+ has ordered a pilot, which means the project is moving forward with an initial episode. A full series order has not been announced at this stage.
If the pilot performs well internally and Disney is happy with the creative direction, Aquamarine could move to series. For now, fans should treat this as an exciting development rather than a confirmed multi-episode season.
Where to Watch Aquamarine
If the new Aquamarine pilot is picked up, it is expected to be available on Disney+ and Disney Channel. Disney+ is available in the US, the UK, and across much of the EU, though catalog availability can vary by region. Disney Channel remains available in the US through participating TV providers, while its linear channel availability in the UK and parts of Europe varies, with Disney+ serving as the main home for many Disney titles.
The original Aquamarine movie may also be available on Disney+ in select territories, depending on regional licensing.
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