Netflix secures rights to the works of famed British author Roald Dahl

Netflix has struck up arguably one of the most important deals in recent times. The streaming giant announced that it has acquired the rights to famed British author Roald Dahl’s entire catalogue of works through its acquisition of The Roald Dahl Story Company. The company had held the rights to Roald Dahl's characters and stories as well as their use across all forms of media.

According to reports in The Hollywood Reporter, Netflix had previously struck a deal with the company for helming animated series and specials based on 16 of Dahl’s popular works such as Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator, The BFG, The Twits, and George’s Marvellous Medicine. It is also developing a series inspired by Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which has Taika Waititi on board, and also an adaptation of Matilda.

The late Roald Dahl had etched his name in pop culture as one of the greatest writers of the century, with his books becoming bestsellers, being translated into over 60 languages. He has earned a string of titles and awards, although there have also been criticisms of his work in the name of antisemitism, racism and misogyny by scholars.

His works have witnessed numerous silver screen adaptations. Some well-known contemporary film adaptations of his stories include Matilda (1996), Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009), James and the Giant Peach (1996) and The Witches, the latter spawning 1990 as well as 2020 adaptation.

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Calling it a move to bring some of Dahl’s beloved works to fans in ‘creative new ways’, Netflix had also indicated its intention to create a universe revolving around Dahl’s stories, including animated and live-action films and television shows, and games.