Lulu Is a Rhinoceros Brings Heart and Humor to Apple TV+
Apple TV+ is looking to catch both young viewers and their parents with Lulu Is a Rhinoceros, a new animated musical special debuting worldwide on May 30, 2025. This isn’t just another cartoon with cheerful animals—it's drawn from the much-loved children’s book by Jason and Allison Flom, a real father-daughter storytelling duo. If you’re expecting the usual moral of 'just be yourself,' you’re not wrong, but Lulu’s quest comes wrapped in toe-tapping pop songs and surprising emotional depth.
At the center is Lulu, a rhinoceros longing to be seen for who she truly is. She’s voiced by Auliʻi Cravalho—yes, the same powerhouse talent from Disney’s 'Moana.' This time, she’s trading ocean adventures for stampeding through animated urban streets and heartfelt ballads. The supporting cast matches her energy: Alex Newell, who already made waves as Unique on 'Glee,' steps in as Cory; Dulé Hill, known for his smart charm in 'Psych,' brings Flom Flom the wisdom and guidance every young hero needs; and Utkarsh Ambudkar, whose comedic chops shine in 'Ghosts,' delivers rapid-fire fun as Hip-Hop. You can also expect Paul Rust to lend personality as Finn, along with a lively collection of animals like Pig, Cat, and Goose.
Angela Stempel sits in the director’s chair and injects the project with a mix of vibrant visuals and zippy timing. While musicals for kids always risk falling into the same tired patterns, the team behind Lulu wants to keep it fresh. The music—original pop numbers—has been tailored not just to please kids but to sneak into their parents’ heads as well. The trailer teases some big ensemble numbers and solo performances that show off the vocal talent of the cast.
This special goes beyond the glitter. The script puts a spotlight on topics that matter for families right now: kindness, standing out from the crowd, and learning to like yourself—even if you don’t fit in. Lulu’s journey isn’t all sunshine; she faces teasing, doubt, and moments of real courage. But instead of preaching, the show leans into humor, smart dialogue, and storytelling that feels genuine and relatable. Kids will see a rhino wrestling with the same awkwardness and uncertainty they might face at school or in their own backyard.
Bringing it all together is executive producer Brett Coker, making sure the original spirit of Jason and Allison Flom’s book isn’t lost in translation. The episode clocks in at just 47 minutes—long enough to develop the story but short enough to hold attention (without causing bedtime battles). Apple TV+ seems to be stepping up its push for meaningful, music-rich family content as rivals like Disney+ and Netflix have upped their game. For parents searching for something new that doesn’t talk down to kids—or bore grown-ups—Lulu’s animated adventure could be a welcome addition to the spring lineup.
A Family Special That Captures a Universal Message
Every detail of Lulu Is a Rhinoceros, from its art style to its song choices, signals a move away from generic kids’ fare. The animation pops with color; there’s a sense of momentum and wonder you can feel even from the short preview. And the cast isn’t simply reciting lines—they’re performing, voicing characters who feel distinctive and fully alive.
Apple TV+ is banking on this special to grab attention in a crowded media space. Parents who grew up singing along to Disney and Pixar hits might find themselves humming Lulu’s tunes in the kitchen, while kids will connect with a character who isn’t perfect but keeps charging forward. The central theme of self-acceptance and kindness isn’t just tacked on—it’s woven into the music and the emotional arc of the story.
With a May 30 premiere lined up, families have something new to mark on the calendar—a pop musical that mixes old-school heart with modern storytelling. The creators’ real bond as family authors brings an extra layer of sincerity, making it clear this is a passion project designed to inspire and entertain, not just fill airtime.
