Live‑Action Adaptation of Kiki’s Delivery Service Announced for Global Release

A live‑action adaptation of Kiki’s Delivery Service is in development.

Originally published in Japan by Fukuinkan Shoten Publishers in 1985, the Kiki’s Delivery Service book series has sold millions of copies worldwide. Studio Ghibli brought the story to the screen in 1989 under the direction of Hayao Miyazaki.

The project coincides with the 40th anniversary of the original novel.

According to Variety, BBC Studios Kids & Family has announced a partnership between UK‑based production company Wheel in Motion and Japan’s Kadokawa Corporation to develop a live‑action television series based on the franchise.

This will be the first television adaptation of the property, consisting of ten 30‑minute episodes drawn from the first volume of the six‑book series. The story follows 13‑year‑old witch Kiki as she leaves home and moves to the city of Koriko, where she establishes a delivery service.

“We are thrilled to be part of a collaboration that brings Kiki’s Delivery Service to life for a new generation on a global stage,” said Grainne McNamara of BBC Studios Kids & Family.

Alexi Wheeler of Wheel in Motion added, “Bringing this beloved story to a new audience as a live‑action series is a dream come true and an absolute honor.”

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. The UK creative team has absorbed the spirit of Kiki through their close collaboration with Ms. Kadono and the results will enchant family audiences everywhere.”

Kadono continued, “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.”

Irena Brignull, whose credits include The Little Prince, The Boxtrolls and Skellig, will write the series.

“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,” Brignull added. “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.”

In related news, the classic Studio Ghibli film Princess Mononoke will receive a new IMAX cinema release in the UK and Ireland.

The 1997 epic fantasy, directed by Hayao Miyazaki, will be presented in a brand‑new 4K restoration across more than 50 IMAX venues in the UK and Ireland starting August 15. The restoration, previously released in the US and Canada, marks the first time the film has been shown in such quality.

This re‑release is part of a broader rollout of cinematic re‑releases for the Studio Ghibli back catalogue, following the recent UK returns of My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away.

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