Earlier this month, a former creator of the classic Nickelodeon revival teased that there were active discussions between the original team and Paramount. With the franchise not confirming any new projects since it returned to the screen in 2017, many animation enthusiasts were excited to see what would come next for the city-dwelling cast of colorful characters. Unfortunately, it appears as though the original statement from writer Joe Purdy wasn’t exactly what it seemed, as the original creator of the NickToon has gone on record to throw some cold water on the idea of Arnold and his crew making a return.
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Hey Arnold! writer Joe Purdy recently stated that “we were having conversations,” hinting at the idea that the NickToon might receive a revival at Paramount. In a statement to shoot down the idea, original series creator Craig Bartlett shot down the idea that a revival series was in the works, going so far as to say that Purdy’s comments were ‘taken out of context.’ Specifically, Bartlett shared a new social media post that stated, “Here to tell you that the stories this week about being in talks with Paramount are not true. Joe made some comments that were taken out of context. Sorry, gang, but don’t worry, there’s lots of Arnold stuff to keep me busy all year!”
What’s Next For Arnold?
While Bartlett shot down the idea of a Hey Arnold! returning anytime soon, he has discussed the idea of bringing back the series and what the creative team might do should they return to the Nickelodeon universe. Most recently, Craig took part in an anniversary celebration for the series, discussing where Arnold might go should he hit the screen once again: “Obviously, it has to be something Nickelodeon wants. If we were to make something new for Nickelodeon, I would love to just pick up where we left off. I actually really tried to design Hey Arnold! The Jungle Movie to end not as a cliffhanger. I really wanted it to be resolved, but you know, Helga and Arnold know that they love each other now. So what’s gonna happen?”
If you’re wondering what Bartlett was referring to when mentioning how he was still busy with the franchise in 2026, this year will see a real-world tour, “The Music of Hey Arnold! Live!” Not only will musicians Jim Land and the PS118 AllStars be playing tracks from the Nickelodeon series, but Craig Bartlett will also be there to offer new insight into the creation of the NickToon. Beginning in California on October 26th, the tour will travel across the country before coming to an end this December. If you want to revisit the series proper, Hey Arnold! is currently streaming on Paramount+.
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