Netflix’s Dungeons & Dragons Live-Action Series Inches Forward

News Submission | November 15, 2025

Fans of tabletop roleplaying and the Forgotten Realms have reason to stay excited. Netflix is actively developing a live-action Dungeons & Dragons series, with producer Shawn Levy revealing new insights about the project. (EnWorld)

Exploring the Forgotten Realms

The series, currently referred to as The Forgotten Realms, will explore one of D&D’s most iconic campaign settings. Levy, known for Stranger Things and Deadpool & Wolverine, is producing through his 21 Laps company, with Drew Crevello attached as showrunner. Hasbro Entertainment is also overseeing the project, ensuring fidelity to the franchise.

Building a New Story

Unlike a straightforward adaptation of a book or movie, Levy explains that the show is not following a single existing story. Instead, the creative team is crafting a narrative that captures the spirit, world, and lexicon of Dungeons & Dragons. Levy calls the process both exciting and challenging, noting that bringing the vast D&D universe to life on screen requires significant world-building.

Development Status

Casting and production details remain under wraps, and Netflix has not confirmed a release date. Industry speculation suggests a potential premiere in late 2026 or 2027, though the timeline is uncertain. Levy has expressed cautious optimism: “I really hope so. I really really hope so” (EnWorld).

Past Attempts and Future Hopes

This is not the first live-action D&D project. An earlier Paramount+ series fell through, leaving fans hopeful that the Netflix version will succeed. The involvement of Levy, with his track record in fantasy and adventure storytelling, raises expectations for a series that is faithful yet fresh.

Why Fans Should Care

For tabletop enthusiasts, the series represents a chance to see the imaginative freedom of Dungeons & Dragons translated to the screen. It comes on the heels of Honor Among Thieves, the 2023 movie that many in the D&D community embraced. While the film was considered a financial disappointment, grossing about $208 million globally on a $150 million budget (Wikipedia), critics and longtime fans praised it for capturing the spirit of D&D. The movie showcased camaraderie, humor, and lore, and was often described as feeling like a real D&D campaign (RogerEbert.com). Some observers suggest that Netflix’s series could build on this positive reception, giving the franchise a creative boost (CBR).