Eiko Kadono’s beloved Kiki’s Delivery Service is set to receive its first live-action TV adaptation, with BBC Studios Kids & Family, Kadokawa Corporation, and U.K.-based production company Wheel in Motion partnering on the project.
According to Variety, the series is currently in development as a 10-episode live-action series, with each episode running approximately 30 minutes. The adaptation will primarily adapt the first volume of Kadono’s six-book series and follow 13-year-old witch Kiki as she leaves home to begin an independent life in the seaside town of Koriko. There, she launches a flying delivery service while building friendships and discovering her place in the world.
First published in Japan in 1985 by Fukuinkan Shoten, Kiki’s Delivery Service has sold millions of copies worldwide and remains one of the most recognizable children’s fantasy stories from Japan. The novel gained international recognition through Studio Ghibli’s 1989 animated film directed by Hayao Miyazaki. The newly announced TV adaptation arrives as the book series celebrates its 40th anniversary.
The production brings together an international team, with Kadokawa collaborating closely with British creatives during development. Acclaimed screenwriter Irena Brignull, known for works including The Boxtrolls, The Little Prince, and Peter Rabbit. is attached to the project.
Grainne McNamara, Senior Vice President of Development for BBC Studios Kids & Family, said:
“We are thrilled to be part of a collaboration to bring ‘Kiki’s Delivery Service’ to life for a new generation on a global stage.”
Alexi Wheeler of Wheel in Motion:
“Bringing this beloved story to a new audience as a live-action series is a dream come true and an absolute honor.”
Takeo Kodera, Director of International Co-Productions at Kadokawa, described the project as a fitting way to celebrate the franchise’s 40th anniversary:
“We cannot imagine a more exciting tribute to the landmark 40th anniversary of this classic book series than this partnership. The U.K. creative team has absorbed the spirit of Kiki through their close collaboration with Ms. Kadono and the results will enchant family audiences everywhere.”
Kadono also shared her excitement about the adaptation:
“Kiki is about to set off on another adventure into a new world. I’m confident this will be a great show. I can’t wait to see the series come to life.”
Screenwriter Irena Brignull:
“Kiki is one of fiction’s great girl characters and I’m thrilled to be part of bringing her to life in this new adaptation. Embodying the magic that exists in re-invention and human connection, she shows us what’s possible when you venture boldly and big-heartedly into the world to find a sense of purpose.”
No casting, release window, or network details have been announced. The project marks the first time Kiki’s Delivery Service will be adapted into a live-action TV series, while it previously got a live-action movie in 2014.
Source: Variety
© Akiko Hayashi, Studio Ghibli
Participate In Discussions