Netflix Developing Live-Action 'Scooby-Doo' Series with 'Cowboy Bebop' Writers

Netflix is teaming up with Warner Bros. Television to develop a new live-action 'Scooby-Doo' series. The project, which has a script-to-series commitment, will be written by Josh Appelbaum and Scott Rosenberg, who previously worked on Netflix's live-action adaptation of 'Cowboy Bebop'.

The one-hour drama series is described as a fresh take on the classic mystery-solving gang and their talking Great Dane, Scooby-Doo. If Netflix is satisfied with the scripts, the project will receive a straight-to-series order. Appelbaum and Rosenberg will serve as executive producers alongside Greg Berlanti and his production company Berlanti Productions, known for their work on the DC Arrowverse shows and 'The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina'.

The 'Scooby-Doo' franchise, which began with the Hanna-Barbera animated series 'Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!' in 1969, has spawned numerous iterations over the years, including animated series, films, and two live-action theatrical movies in 2002 and 2004. The news of this Netflix series comes shortly after the release of the second season of the adult animated series 'Velma' on HBO Max, which received largely negative reviews, particularly for the absence of Scooby-Doo himself.

Why this matters: The development of a new live-action 'Scooby-Doo' series signifies a noteworthy advancement for the beloved franchise, as it explores a fresh take on the iconic characters for a streaming platform. The involvement of established writers and producers raises expectations for a high-quality adaptation that could potentially introduce the Mystery Inc. gang to a new generation of fans.

While details about the plot and casting remain under wraps, the announcement has sparked enthusiasm among fans, with many calling for Matthew Lillard, who portrayed Shaggy in the live-action films, to reprise his role. As the project moves forward, audiences can anticipate a reimagining of the classic 'Scooby-Doo' formula, blending mystery, humor, and nostalgia in a new live-action format.

Key Takeaways

• Netflix and Warner Bros. to develop live-action Scooby-Doo series.
• Series will be written by Josh Appelbaum and Scott Rosenberg.
• Greg Berlanti's production company to executive produce the project.
• Series aims to provide a fresh take on the classic mystery-solving gang.
• Fans hopeful for Matthew Lillard to reprise his role as Shaggy.