The world of Dungeons & Dragons is returning to Netflix’s plans, but with a project very different from what had been discussed in the past. The platform is developing Ravenloft, a new live-action series set in the series’ renowned gothic dimension. Here’s what we know.
Netflix targets Ravenloft for the new Dungeons & Dragons series
The project, as reported by Deadline, will involve John August as writer and executive producer and the Oscar-winning director Alfonso Cuarón as executive producer, together with Hasbro Entertainment. The series is described as a prestige fantasy in which adventure, Gothic horror, and tragic romance meet. A direction that could make Ravenloft very different from the traditional fantasy stories tied to Dungeons & Dragons.
At the heart of the story will be Strahd
The series’ lead will be Strahd von Zarovich, the famed vampire and Darklord of Ravenloft, one of the most iconic villains in the entire Dungeons & Dragons universe. The story is expected to tell his origins and the path that will lead him to become an undead creature. A journey marked by power, love, and obsession, through which Strahd will move from tragic antihero to ruthless dark lord. Strahd’s presence suggests Netflix intends to lean primarily into the creepier aspect of the setting.
What is Ravenloft?
Ravenloft is one of the most famous settings in Dungeons & Dragons. Created in 1983 by Tracy and Laura Hickman, over the years it has become one of the most recognizable settings in the role-playing game. Its defining feature is the Domains of Dread, dark territories ruled by powerful and cursed figures. Strahd is undoubtedly the most famous among these characters. The setting has also transcended the tabletop, giving rise to numerous novels, campaign modules, video games, and manuals.
Farewell to the Forgotten Realms-set series
The decision to focus on Ravenloft comes as Netflix has abandoned another live-action Dungeons & Dragons project. The platform had in fact been developing a series set in the Forgotten Realms, announced in 2025 with Drew Crevello as writer and Shawn Levy (director and producer of Stranger Things) as executive producer. According to Deadline, that project is no longer in Netflix’s plans. Ravenloft therefore represents a fresh starting point. For now, it should be noted, it remains in the early stages of development. Netflix has not announced the cast, the number of episodes, the start of filming, or a potential release date. But we’ll keep you updated.
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