Kat Graham cast as first African-American April O'Neil in new Turtles series

Actress Kat Graham has made history by becoming the first African-American April O'Neil in a new animated Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles series.

The former Vampire Diaries star will voice the character in Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

The O'Neil character has most recently been portrayed by Megan Fox in the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movies.

"I've watched TMNT since I was a little girl," a statement from the actress reads. "I'm so proud to be playing the first African-American April O'Neil. What an incredible honor for me and milestone for this iconic cartoon. I'm excited for all the adventures the Turtles and I will have!"

The 26-episode TV series, which will also feature the voices of Omar Miller, Ben Schwartz, Josh Brener, Brandon Mychal Smith, and Erica Bauza, will air on network Nickelodeon next year (18).