Netflix live-action Pokémon series reportedly still in development, insider claims

An industry insider claims Netflix’s live-action Pokémon series remains in development with updates expected in 2026

Netflix’s live-action Pokémon series is reportedly still in development, according to new industry rumours that have revived interest in the long-discussed project.

Entertainment insider @MyTimeToShineHello claimed on X that the adaptation “is still in active development and we should hear some news about it next year.”

The update follows earlier confirmation from Variety that Netflix was working on a live-action Pokémon series as part of its strategy to expand adaptations of major Japanese franchises.

According to previous reports, Lucifer co-showrunner Joe Henderson will write and executive-produce the series. Henderson, known for his work on White Collar and Almost Human, is expected to bring his experience in character-driven storytelling to the project.

Netflix has not yet shared details about the cast, filming schedule, or release window, and the tone or intended audience of the series remains unclear.

The show will reportedly take inspiration from the 2019 film Detective Pikachu, which successfully combined live-action performances with CGI Pokémon to create a realistic hybrid world.

That film, featuring Ryan Reynolds as Pikachu, proved the viability of live-action adaptations for the franchise. Netflix aims to achieve a similar blend of visual realism and adventure in its upcoming production.

Netflix already serves as a global hub for Pokémon content, currently hosting titles such as Pokémon Journeys, Pokémon Sun and Moon, and the original animated series.

The planned live-action series adds to the streamer’s growing list of franchise adaptations, which includes One Piece, My Hero Academia, and Scooby-Doo.

While no release date has been confirmed, insiders anticipate that Netflix may reveal more details in 2026 as development continues.