Netflix Inc. (NASDAQ: NFLX), the world’s leading Internet TV network, is adding two new live-action titles to its ever-expanding lineup of original series for older kids. Premiering in 2017, the untitled Horse Mystery project and The Worst Witch bring tenacious girls front and center in two different coming-of-age stories. Both shows will follow their leading ladies as they deal with life’s challenges and learn how to channel the feeling of failure into empowering self-discovery.
Set in a stable on a beautiful island off the coast of England, the untitled Horse Mystery project follows an American teenager’s summer of adventure, friendship and intrigue. After finding a special connection with a dangerous horse named Raven, 15-year-old Zoe realizes a thrilling mystery is unravelling around her. The complex relationship Zoe develops with Raven gives her the strength to deal with difficult issues in her family, as well as the grit and motivation to master her riding skills and ultimately discover a passion for the sport.
Viewers will be transported to an equally incredible world in The Worst Witch, a fantasy series based on the beloved books by Jill Murphy. The show centers around trainee witch Mildred Hubble, and the fun and drama of her experience at Miss Cackle’s Academy for Witches. Though she means well and tries very hard, Mildred is the clumsiest witch in school, constantly wreaking havoc as she mixes up potions and spells. Magical mayhem meets the everyday world of school life in a story which will resonate with every child –and really anyone– who’s ever worried about not being good enough.
“Our mission of creating stories and characters younger members can relate to, and even aspire to be, comes through in these projects,” said Andy Yeatman, Director of Global Kids Content for Netflix. “While set in very different contexts, both shows center around characters who are learning to deal with and overcome hardship, while also enjoying the journey and all its surprises.”
The untitled Horse Mystery project and The Worst Witch expand on the growing selection of live-action Netflix original series for tweens, which includes Degrassi: Next Class, Project Mc2, Lost & Found Music Studios and Mako Mermaids: An H2O Adventure.