Taika Waititi to Reprise ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ With Animated Netflix Series

Taika Waititi is bringing his talents to Netflix. The Oscar-winning writer is has signed a deal with the streaming giant to write, direct and executive produce two original animated series based off of Roald Dahl’s books, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

According to THR, Netflix struck a deal with Dahl’s estate back in 2018 and the partnership with Waititi marks the first steps in developing some of the famed author’s works. Waititi will create the first series based on the world of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” and for the second, he will take an entirely original spin on the beloved Oompa-Loompas.

Netflix is also looking into adapting more of Dahl’s works such as “Matilda,” “The BFG ” and “The Twits,” among others.

“I grew up reading Dahl stories and lived large parts of my young life in those magical worlds, so finding just the right creative partner to bring Willy Wonka, Charlie and the Oompa-Loompas to life in animation was a daunting task … until Taika walked into the room. Then, it was really obvious. If Dahl had created a character of a filmmaker to adapt his work, I’m pretty sure he would have created Taika,” stated Netflix VP of original animation Melissa Cobb.

Netflix has been ramping up their animated series portfolio. The company recently got two Oscar nominations for best animated feature — “Klaus” and “I Lost My Body” — and “Klaus” was seen in 30 million homes during its first month, per the streamer.

In November, Netflix signed a multiyear licensing deal with Nickelodeon for original animated movies and television series. Specials will be based on “The Loud House” and “Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle.”

Photo credit: Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.