Quinta Brunson to develop, star as Betty Boop in new feature film
Washington DC, May 21
Emmy-winning actor and producer Quinta Brunson is set to develop and star as iconic cartoon character Betty Boop in a new feature film adaptation, according to People.
Brunson's production banner Fifth Chance Productions has teamed up with Mark Fleischer, grandson of Betty Boop creator Max Fleischer, for the project.
The film will reportedly explore the origin and evolution of Betty Boop through the perspective of her creator, while examining the growing relationship between the artist and his famous creation amid the commercial and creative pressures of building one of the world's earliest animated icons.
"Betty Boop is one of our nation's most beloved cartoon characters, yet somehow remains pleasantly niche," Brunson said in a statement quoted by Variety.
"She has had a quiet but undeniable impact on culture for nearly a century," Brunson added.
Quinta Brunson further shared that after meeting Fleischer and learning more about the history behind the character, she realised 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," she said.
Mark Fleischer praised Brunson's vision for the film, saying he was "breathtaken" when she approached him with the concept, according to People.
"Quinta so embodies Betty's love of life, intelligence, humour, sassiness and compassion that the relationship between her as Betty and Max burst into life at its mere mention," he said.
Created by Max Fleischer and designed by Grim Natwick, Betty Boop first appeared in the animated series Talkartoon in 1930. The character officially entered the public domain on January 1, 2026.
Brunson is best known for creating and starring in the hit comedy series Abbott Elementary. She also has several upcoming projects, including the animated remake of The Cat in the Hat, according to People.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Brook in India we barely know Betty Boop yaar. But Quinta Brunson from Abbott Elementary is solid. Maybe this will introduce the character to a new generation. The creator's perspective angle sounds deep. Let's see if it works.
Hollywood keeps remaking everything from its past. Why not create something new instead? But I admit, Brunson's take on exploring the relationship between creator and creation sounds interesting. Might be a decent watch if they don't mess up the cultural heritage aspect. 🤔
As someone who grew up watching old cartoons, I'm cautiously excited. Betty Boop was always a bit overlooked compared to Mickey or Bugs. Quinta has the comedy chops from Abbott Elementary, and this backstage story could be fascinating. Hope they keep it respectful to Max Fleischer's legacy.
Quinta Brunson is brilliant, no doubt. But making a film about a cartoon character's origin through the creator's perspective? That's a high-wire act. Could be a masterpiece or a mess. I'm leaning towards hope because she's got good instincts. The fact that it went public domain recently is a nice hook too.
I appreciate the ambition here but I'm sceptical. Betty Boop was a product of her time - the whole jazz age, flapper culture. Can a modern film capture that while also being "subversive and timeless"? Sounds like marketing speak. Let's wait for the trailer rather than hype it up now.
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