The world’s most famous Alpine orphan is getting a fresh face. In a major production partnership between SRF and RTL, 12-year-old Swiss actress Neah Hefti has been cast as the lead in a lavish new TV series based on Johanna Spyri’s timeless classic, “Heidi.”
Coming 145 years after the original story’s debut, this remake aims to breathe new life into the cult character. The upcoming series will not only retell the beloved tale in a modern way but will too expand the narrative, following Heidi’s journey as she transitions from a young girl into young adulthood. This evolution allows the production to place a stronger emphasis on Heidi’s personal growth, her quest for self-determination, and the enduring themes of nature, friendship, and home.
While the role is iconic, Hefti is no stranger to the spotlight. A sixth-grader from the canton of Zurich, the young actress previously starred as the main character, Pola, in the feature film “Plitsch Platsch Forever!” directed by Natascha Beller. Despite her previous experience in a major production, Hefti continues to balance her burgeoning career with a normal school life in Zurich.
The revival of this Swiss fairy tale marks a significant moment for the franchise, updating a story that has spanned from 19th-century novels to a cult animated series in the 1970s. By blending the traditional Alpine idyll—complete with the beloved “Alpöhi”—with a contemporary lens, SRF and RTL are positioning the series to appeal to a new generation of viewers.
The project is expected to hit screens next year, bringing the world-famous classic back to the forefront of television. With Neah Hefti at the center, the series looks to honor the legacy of the original while exploring the character’s maturity.
