Netflix announced Wednesday that it has acquired the Roald Dahl Story Company for an undisclosed number, giving the streaming giant the rights to the entire repository of stories and characters by the author.
Netflix confirmed the news in a blog post in which it promised to bring a new generation of fans the magic and wonder of Dahl's books in a variety of formats including animation, live action films and TV, publishing, games, immersive experiences, live theatre, consumer products and more.
Deadline reports that the acquisition builds on a partnership previously between the two companies in 2018, which gave Netflix access to 16 pieces from Dahl's stories to adapt for animation. Those projects to date include an ongoing series from Taika Waititi and Phil Johnston based on the world of Charlie and The Chocolate Factory as well as an adaptation of Matilda The Musical. Netflix notes in its blog post that the stories and characters of the late Dahl, who died in 1990, remain both true and relevant, having been translated into 63 languages and selling more than 300 million copies worldwide.
As we bring these timeless stories to more audiences in new formats, Netflix re committed to maintaining their unique spirit and their universal themes of surprise and kindness, while also sprinkling some fresh magic into the mix, Netflix said in its statement announcing the news.
While Netflix viewers and Roald Dahl fans are likely to be the best beneficiaries of the new deal, Deadline notes this is quite the get for the Deadline Roald Dahl Story company. Led by Luke Kelly, Managing Director, the company is headquartered in the UK with roughly 26 full time employees across eight departments. They are now going to be working tirelessly to bring Dahl s stories to life for a whole new generation of streaming fans.