Ridley Jones is a new animated series on Netflix that follows the adventures of a six-year-old girl who lives in a museum where the exhibits come to life at night. The show is created by Chris Nee, who also made Doc McStuffins and Vampirina. But is Ridley Jones related to Indiana Jones, the famous archaeologist and adventurer from the movies? Let’s find out.
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The Similarities Between Ridley Jones and Indiana Jones
The name Ridley Jones is obviously a homage to Indiana Jones, as they both share the same surname and have a similar profession. Ridley Jones is a curator who “saves the future by protecting the past”, while Indiana Jones is a professor who “studies the past by living it”. They both have a passion for history, culture, and adventure, and they both face dangers and mysteries along the way.
The show itself is also inspired by the Indiana Jones movies, as well as Night at the Museum, as Ridley and her friends explore different exhibits and learn about their stories. Some of the characters are reminiscent of Indiana Jones’ allies and enemies, such as Peaches, the astronaut chimp who is like Short Round from Temple of Doom, or Mr. Peabody, the museum director who is like Belloq from Raiders of the Lost Ark.
The show also features some references and easter eggs to the Indiana Jones movies, such as a whip, a fedora, a snake, and a boulder. The opening theme song also has a similar vibe to the iconic John Williams score.
The Differences Between Ridley Jones and Indiana Jones
Despite the similarities, Ridley Jones is not related to Indiana Jones by blood or by canon. They exist in different universes and timelines, as Ridley Jones is set in modern times, while Indiana Jones is set in the 1930s and 1940s. Ridley Jones is also aimed at a younger audience than Indiana Jones, as it has more musical elements, comedy, and educational content.
Ridley Jones also has a more diverse and inclusive cast of characters than Indiana Jones, as it features people of color, LGBTQ+ representation, and female empowerment. For example, Ridley’s best friend Ismat is a queen of ancient Egypt who has two dads, Fred is a nonbinary bison who uses they/them pronouns, and Ridley’s mom and grandma are both strong and independent women who run the museum.
The Verdict: Is Ridley Jones Related to Indiana Jones?
The answer is no, Ridley Jones is not related to Indiana Jones by any official or biological means. However, they are related by spirit and inspiration, as they both share a love for adventure and history. Ridley Jones is a tribute to Indiana Jones, but also a unique and original show that stands on its own.
If you are looking for a fun and educational show for your kids (or yourself), check out Ridley Jones on Netflix. It’s awesome!
