How's this for magical news? Kiki's Delivery Service is being turned into a live-action TV show from the BBC.
BBC Studios Kids & Family, fellow UK production company Wheels in Motion, and Japan's Kadakowa will join forces for a live-action adaptation of Eiko Kadono's novel, which Studio Ghibli also drew from for its 1989 anime classic (via Variety).
While Kadono went on to write several more acclaimed books in the Kiki's series, the live-action show is planned to consist of 10 episodes based on the first novel – which largely covers the same narrative ground as Studio Ghibli's movie.
However, the form of a TV show will, inevitably, differ from a feature film – and could even bring in material from later novels.
In both the movie and novel, Kiki is a 13-year-old witch who moves to a coastal town as part of her training. While there, she struggles with juggling a new delivery service, her own independence, and her fluctuating powers.
The project even comes with Kadono's seal of approval. In a statement, she said, "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."
Takeo Kodera, Kadokawa's director of international co-productions added, "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."
Kiki's Delivery Service is currently undated. For more, check out our rankings of the best anime movies ever made.
