BBC Studios Kids & Family has announced a collaboration with the U.K. production company Wheel in Motion and Japan’s Kadokawa Corporation. Together, they are developing a live-action television series based on Eiko Kadono’s novel “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” marking the first time the story will be adapted into a live-action television format.
Currently in the works, the series is set to feature 10 half-hour episodes mainly derived from the first book of Kadono’s six-part series. The narrative centers on a 13-year-old witch named Kiki, who ventures away from home to the port town of Koriko. There, she establishes a delivery service and forms new friendships.
Irena Brignull is on board as the writer for the series. Her past work includes the Oscar-nominated “The Boxtrolls,” as well as Sky’s “Skellig” and Netflix’s “The Little Prince.”
“Kiki’s Delivery Service” was first published in Japan in 1985 by Fukuinkan Shoten Publishers and has since sold millions of copies globally. Studio Ghibli adapted the novel into an anime feature in 1989 under the direction of Miyazaki Hayao. This latest adaptation coincides with the 40th anniversary of the book series.
“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,” said Grainne McNamara of BBC Studios Kids & Family.
“Bringing this beloved story to a new audience as a live-action series is a dream come true and an absolute honor,” added Alexi Wheeler of Wheel in Motion.
“We cannot imagine a more exciting tribute to the landmark 40th anniversary of this classic book series than this partnership,” said Takeo Kodera, director of international co-productions at Kadokawa. “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.”
“Kiki is about to set off on another adventure into a new world,” added Kadono, who is also a Hans Christian Andersen Award winner. “I’m confident this will be a great show. I can’t wait to see the series come to life.”
“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,” said Brignull. “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.”
