Netflix has reached a deal to purchase the estate of children's book author Roald Dahl, opening the door to new ventures based on these classic tales, BBC News reported.
Symbolizing the move with a golden ticket inside a Wonka bar, the streaming giant will take over Roald Dahl Story Company, operated by Dahl's grandson Luke Kelly. Netflix will gain publishing, TV and film rights, as well as royalties, from classic children's books including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The BFG, Matilda and James and the Giant Peach. This builds on a deal that Netflix had with the estate since 2018 to create animated series based on Dahl's books.
Kelly and Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos issued a joint statement about "joining forces to bring some of the world's most loved stories to current and future fans in creative new ways," BBC News said.
The deal also gives Netflix the right to create games and stage shows based on Dahl's stories. The company already has 19 projects in the works including a a series based on the world of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and an adaptation of Matilda The Musical.
"These projects opened our eyes to a much more ambitious venture—the creation of a unique universe across animated and live action films and TV, publishing, games, immersive experiences, live theater, consumer products and more," Kelly and Sarandos said.
The Roald Dahl company earned $26 million from his works in 2019.