Avatar Fans Launch Massive Campaign for Theatrical Release
Over 34,000 signatures demand The Legend of Aang hit movie theaters instead of streaming. Animation staff speak out about the controversial decision that has divided the fanbase.
Avatar Studios announced The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender back in 2021 as their debut animated movie. The project promised to continue Aang's story years beyond the original series finale.
Fans embraced the concept immediately. This wasn't another remake attempt. Instead, it offered a genuine continuation featuring beloved characters from their childhood. The studio initially marketed it as a major cinema release.
Then Paramount canceled the theatrical plans. Angry supporters created a Change.org petition that has collected over 34,000 signatures demanding a theater release.
Fake Comment Triggers Fan Uprising
The petition gained momentum after someone posted a comment using animation director Steve Ahn's identity. The message criticized studio executives and demanded the film return to theaters immediately.
Ahn quickly corrected the record, stating he never wrote those words:
"I am truly grateful for the passion shown in the Avatar petition. Someone has impersonated me and left a misleading comment. I am not the author of that post, and I hope this official clarification prevents any further rumors or false speculation."
He worried the fake comment might create problems for his colleagues. Ahn added that he felt compelled to speak up to protect the artists who worked on the film from unfair criticism.
Animation Team Voices Disappointment
Tom Barkel, an animator on The Legend of Aang who also worked on Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and The Owl House, shared his genuine frustration publicly.
"Regarding The Legend of Aang going straight to streaming: I'm devastated. As both a massive fan and an artist on the movie, it's heartbreaking. Everything I've seen from this film has been absolutely gorgeous; it really was made to be seen on the big screen."
While Ahn's statement cleared up the impersonation incident, Barkel's honest reaction showed that even crew members felt disappointed by the streaming-only decision.
What We Know About the Upcoming Film
The movie expands the Avatar universe beyond the original television series. Set many years after the show ended, it features an adult Aang navigating new challenges.
Lauren Montgomery and William Mata direct the project. Both have previous Avatar experience. Series creators Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko remain involved as producers.
The voice cast is completely new. Eric Nam voices the older Aang, while Dave Bautista plays a villain. Jessica Matten voices Katara, Román Zaragoza plays Sokka, Dionne Quan returns as Toph, and Steven Yeun takes on Zuko. None of the original TV series voice actors participated.
The Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender launches October 9, 2026, exclusively on Paramount+.