Disney Channel’s “Big City Greens” is set to hit a major milestone this spring as it airs its 100th episode on linear TV on May 3 and streams on Disney+ on May 7. Since its launch in 2018, the show has quietly become a cornerstone of modern family animation, combining the charm of classic sitcoms with inventive storytelling and a healthy dose of silliness.
Created by brothers Chris and Shane Houghton, “Big City Greens” follows the mischievous adventures of Cricket Green, a 10-year-old boy whose family moves from the country to the city. Drawing inspiration from the Houghtons’ own childhood in rural St. Johns, Michigan, the series strikes a balance between slapstick comedy and genuine emotion, making it a hit with viewers of all ages.
Shane Houghton reflects on the show’s journey, stating, “From the very beginning, we thought that this show could go 100 episodes. That was the benchmark: can this idea stretch that far? And we believed it could because the heart of the series was so solid â itâs two parts comedy, one part heart.”
The heart of “Big City Greens” has always been central to its success. Despite the cartoon chaos, the show never loses sight of its emotional core. The 100th episode promises to be a celebration with larger-than-life characters, visits to the afterlife, and even a cameo by Mark Hamill. However, it also includes moments of raw emotion that resonate with viewers and showcase the show’s depth.
Chris Houghton emphasizes the importance of character development, stating, “Itâs cool to watch âBig City Greensâ evolve beyond the TV series â into shorts, a movie, a live NHL broadcast, even TikTok and toys. But the characters are what make all of that possible.”
With nearly 1 billion YouTube views and a strong viewership among kids aged 6-11, “Big City Greens” has solidified its place as one of Disney’s longest-running animated series. Meredith Roberts, exec VP of television animation at Disney Branded Television, describes it as an “evergreen series” that continues to captivate audiences.
One of the show’s defining features is its refusal to talk down to its audience. Roberts explains, “The secret sauce is that Cricket can misbehave and still face the consequences, but never with a lecture. The show doesnât try to teach a lesson through messaging. Itâs joyful, and it never talks down to kids.”
The Houghtons’ unique voice and sharp comedy writing have been key to the show’s enduring appeal. Behind the scenes, a talented crew including producer Michael Coughlin and co-executive producer Stephen Sandoval have helped bring the Houghtons’ vision to life.
As “Big City Greens” gears up for its fifth season, the Houghtons are expanding their creative horizons with live-action projects and adult animation in the works. Despite the challenges of juggling multiple projects, the brothers remain passionate about the show and are excited for what’s to come.
For Roberts, nurturing artists like the Houghtons and allowing them room to grow is a top priority. She emphasizes the importance of supporting creators and providing opportunities for them to thrive within the company.
As Shane Houghton reflects on the nine years spent working on the show, he sees it as a personal journey filled with memories and experiences. Looking back on old episodes, he sees glimpses of his own life reflected in the storytelling, making the show a truly special and meaningful project for him and his brother.
