Six Netflix Series You Probably Didn't Even Know Were in Development

Carrie Soto Is Back — I’m a big fan of Taylor Jenkins Reid, and while Carrie Soto Is Back isn’t her best novel (that title still belongs to Daisy Jones & the Six, which was adapted into a middling Prime Video series), it holds significant potential. The story follows Carrie Soto, a tennis legend known as the “Battle Axe” for her fierce competitiveness, who comes out of retirement at 37 to defend her record against a rising star. Notably, Serena Williams — in inspiration for the book — is set to executive produce the Netflix adaptation. Taylor Jenkins Reid will also serve as an executive producer. Casting details are still under wraps.

One Tree Hill — It seems that the One Tree Hill podcast has reignited interest in the series, leading Netflix to develop a revival. Sophia Bush and Hilarie Burton, who portrayed Brooke Davis and Peyton Sawyer, are set to produce and star in the sequel series. Although Chad Michael Murray is reportedly not involved, there have been informal discussions with other original cast members. The revival will explore themes of parenting and other relatable issues faced by Millennials. While the project hasn’t been officially greenlit, Hilarie Burton has expressed confidence in its development.

American Squid Game Series — Since its initial announcement, there hasn’t been much news, but the project is indeed moving forward. David Fincher is developing an English-language adaptation of Squid Game for Netflix. Given Fincher’s existing relationship with Netflix and the original show’s massive success, an American version seems inevitable. While details are scarce, Fincher’s involvement suggests an even more dark take on the concept.

A Different World Sequel — Late last year, Netflix announced the development of a sequel to the Cosby Show spin-off that originally starred Lisa Bonet. The new series will follow the daughter of Whitley and Dwayne as she attends Hillman College. Netflix has taken the rare step of ordering a pilot episode, with filming set to begin this summer in Atlanta. The project boasts involvement from original series veterans, including producer/director Debbie Allen and executive producer Tom Werner.

The Grays — This upcoming series is a modern adaptation of The Picture of Dorian Gray, developed by Greg Berlanti and written by Katie Rose Rogers. Set against the backdrop of the contemporary beauty industry, the show will center on siblings Basil and Doran Gray, exploring themes of vanity and the pursuit of eternal youth. The series is being produced by Berlanti Productions, with Rina Mimoun serving as showrunner and Lee Toland Krieger set to direct.

Something Is Killing the Children — This project is particularly intriguing. Initially, Mike Flanagan was attached but departed due to creative differences. He has been replaced by Baran bo Odar and Jantje Friese, the German creators of Dark and 1899. Based on the acclaimed comic book series, the story follows a small town plagued by monsters that prey on children, with only Erica Slaughter possessing the abilities to stop them. The series is still in development, with scripts being written, and is expected to premiere no earlier than late 2025.