Full Breakdown
Kiki’s Delivery Service to Soar in First Live-Action TV Adaptation
6/17/2026, 3:36:41 AM
Core Development Announcement
BBC Studios Kids & Family, UK producer Wheel in Motion, and Japan’s Kadokawa Corporation have announced a joint production of the first live-action television series based on Eiko Kadono’s “Kiki’s Delivery Service.” The ten-episode series will adapt mainly the first volume of Kadono’s six-book series and is timed for the franchise’s 40th anniversary.
Background & Context
The novel debuted in 1985 and has sold millions worldwide. Studio Ghibli’s 1989 animated film, directed by Hayao Miyazaki, popularized the story, and a Japanese live-action film appeared in 2014, but no TV adaptation existed until now.
Production Team
The series is produced by BBC Studios Kids & Family (VP Grainne McNamara), Wheel in Motion (founder Alexi Wheeler), and Kadokawa Corporation (Takeo Kodera). Author Eiko Kadono and screenwriter Irena Brignull are also attached.
Data & Statistics
The ten half-hour episodes adapt the first volume of Kadono’s six-book series (illustrated by Akiko Hayashi), commemorate the 40th anniversary of the 1985 novel, and draw on a property that has sold millions of copies globally.
Why It Matters
This project marks the first live-action TV treatment of a property long linked to Studio Ghibli, extending its reach to a new generation and exemplifying the rise of cross-border literary adaptations for streaming platforms.
Official Statements & Responses
BBC Studios said the venture offers a chance to bring the story to a new global generation. Wheel in Motion called the adaptation a “dream-come-true” honor, while Kadokawa framed it as a tribute to the 40th anniversary and praised the UK team’s capture of Kiki’s spirit. Kadono expressed confidence in the show’s quality, and Brignull highlighted Kiki’s role as a strong female protagonist.
Verbatim Quotes
- “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.” — Grainne McNamara, 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.” — Alexi Wheeler, Wheel in Motion
- “Takeo Kodera, director of international co-productions at Kadokawa said: “We cannot imagine a more exciting tribute to the landmark 40th anniversary of this classic book series than this partnership.” — Takeo Kodera, Kadokawa Corporation
- “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.” — Eiko Kadono, author
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
No casting, production schedule, or distribution platform has been announced, and a release date remains undisclosed.
What’s Next
The collaboration will move into pre-production, with casting and location announcements expected later this year. Completion of the first season is planned to align with promotional activities for the 40th-anniversary celebrations.
