Sofia the First is currently streaming in Australia on Disney Plus, and in the US on Disney Plus and Hulu, and it uses the format for more than just a visual hook. Every one of its 4 seasons holds up. With 549 viewer ratings on TMDB, this is not a title flying under the radar. A harder one to justify skipping than to start. Put it on tonight on Disney Plus and see for yourself.

Sofia the First arrived without much fanfare and built its audience the hard way — through word of mouth. Sofia the First treats animation as a medium, not a limitation. Set in the storybook world of Enchancia, this is the story of Princess Sofia, an adventurous little girl who is learning how to adjust to royal life after her mom marries the king and she becomes a princess overnight. Ariel Winter brings more to it than the format typically demands. The series ran for 4 seasons (2013–2018), building a story that gave its audience time to invest properly. What makes Sofia the First more than a curiosity is writing that would hold up in any format. It knows exactly what it is, and does not try to be anything else.

If you have been sleeping on Sofia the First because of the format, the format is not the issue here. Elena of Avalor is the obvious comparison, but Sofia the First earns its own place alongside it. Best experienced as a single, sustained watch if your schedule allows. Ariel Winter brings more to the role than the format usually demands. A harder one to justify skipping than to start.

Sofia the First wrapped up in 2018, created by Craig Gerber — and 4 seasons are available to watch from start to finish. Find exactly where it's streaming below, and TV Butler Pro makes it effortless to track your progress as you go. Just search the name, and Butler finds it instantly, tells you which service has it, and remembers exactly where you left off.