Gina Rodriguez is bringing “The Diary of a Future President” to Disney+. A trailer for the upcoming series sees the president of the United States (Rodriguez) discovering her childhood journal. “I started writing it in the sixth grade,” she explains. “It’s a day-by-day account of how I got here. I really had a lot to say.” The inspirational series tells the story of Cuban American middle schooler Elena (Tess Romero, “Blind Spot”), who will one day become Commander in Chief.
By her own admission, the 12-year-old doesn’t like “having no idea what the future looks like.” Amidst the usual middle school travails — such as intense crushes, puberty, and running into a teacher while bra shopping — Elena has no clue she’ll grow up to lead the country. At the moment, she’s mostly preoccupied by her changing family. Her mother (Selenis Leyva, “Orange Is the New Black”) has a new boyfriend, and Elena’s not exactly happy about it.
Plus, like most pre-teens, Elena is confused about who she is, what she wants, and where she’s going. “Middle school — it’s tough,” her mother says. “This is a time to discover the things you find fun.”
“Diary of a Future President” is created by Ilana Peña (“Crazy Ex-Girlfriend”). In addition to guest starring, Rodriguez executive produces and directed the first episode. Also exec producing are Peña, showrunner Robin Shorr (“The Carmichael Show”), and Emily Gipson, who produced Rodriguez-starrer “Someone Great.”
“Diary of a Future President” premieres January 17 on Disney+.
