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The long-awaited live-action "Scooby-Doo" series for Netflix has officially cast its iconic Mystery Inc. gang, bringing to life the beloved characters for a new generation. Variety has exclusively learned that Maxwell Jenkins will step into the ascots as the de facto leader, Fred Jones, while Tanner Hagen will embody the perpetually hungry Norville "Shaggy" Rogers. Rounding out the core teen detectives is Abby Ryder Fortson, who will portray the sharp-witted Velma Dinkley. They join the previously announced Mckenna Grace, who is set to bring the fashion-forward Daphne Blake to life. This ensemble cast promises to inject fresh energy and talent into the enduring franchise, setting the stage for a modern reimagining of the classic mystery-solving group.
Netflix, in a significant move that signals its commitment to the enduring appeal of the Hanna-Barbera property, picked up the untitled "Scooby-Doo" series for an eight-episode run in March 2025. The series is poised to offer a contemporary take on the beloved cartoon, promising to blend the nostalgic charm of the original with a fresh narrative sensibility. The official logline provides a tantalizing glimpse into the premise, hinting at a coming-of-age story intertwined with supernatural intrigue.
The narrative centers on Shaggy and Daphne during their final summer at camp, where they find themselves entangled in a perplexing mystery involving a lost Great Dane puppy. This seemingly innocent discovery takes a sinister turn as the puppy may have been a witness to a supernatural murder. The logline elaborates, "Together with the pragmatic and scientific townie, Velma (Fortson), and the strange, but ever so handsome new kid, Freddy (Jenkins), they set out to solve the case that is pulling each of them into a creepy nightmare that threatens to expose all of their secrets." This setup suggests a more character-driven approach, exploring the personal stakes and hidden depths of each member of Mystery Inc. as they confront a mystery that challenges their perceptions and bonds.
For Maxwell Jenkins, this role marks a significant return to Netflix, where he previously starred in the streamer’s two-season reboot of the science-fiction classic "Lost in Space." His prior experience with the platform also includes an appearance in the early Netflix original "Sense8." Since his time with the streaming giant, Jenkins has expanded his resume with notable roles in Amazon’s "Reacher" and "The Bondsman," Apple TV+’s "Dear Edward," and the film "Joe Bell" alongside Mark Wahlberg. His versatility and established presence in the industry make him a compelling choice to lead the Mystery Inc. gang.
Tanner Hagen, who will be tackling the iconic role of Shaggy Rogers, brings a diverse background to the ensemble. His television credits include a role in the acclaimed HBO Max series "The Pitt" and appearances in Paramount+’s "Lawmen: Bass Reeves." Hagen is also set to feature in the upcoming film "The Man Who Changed the World." Beyond his acting prowess, Hagen is a seasoned performer with a background in music and dance. He was a former member of the pop group "FuturePop," showcasing a multi-talented profile that could lend itself well to the energetic and often comedic portrayal of Shaggy.
Abby Ryder Fortson, tasked with bringing the brilliant Velma Dinkley to life, is no stranger to critical acclaim and impactful roles. She recently garnered attention for her performance in the first season of HBO Max’s "The Pitt," portraying Kristi Wheeler, a pregnant teen navigating a difficult situation. Fortson’s early career saw her appear in an episode of "The Mindy Project," a series created by Mindy Kaling, who herself recently helmed an adult animated Velma spinoff series for HBO Max, drawing a thematic parallel to Fortson’s casting. Her television resume also includes work on "Togetherness," "Transparent," and "Tales From the Loop." On the film side, Fortson has made a notable impact with her roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s "Ant-Man" films and the critically praised "Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret," where she starred alongside Rachel McAdams and Kathy Bates. Her experience in both dramatic and comedic projects suggests she is well-equipped to capture Velma’s intelligence and distinct personality.
The production team behind this new "Scooby-Doo" endeavor is a powerhouse of talent. Josh Appelbaum and Scott Rosenberg are set to serve as writers and showrunners, bringing their proven track record in crafting engaging narratives. They will also executive produce alongside André Nemec and Jeff Pinkner under their Midnight Radio banner. The esteemed Greg Berlanti, alongside Sarah Schechter and Leigh London Redman, will executive produce via Berlanti Productions, a company known for its extensive work in television. Toby Haynes is slated to executive produce and direct the inaugural episode, setting the visual tone for the series. Warner Bros. Television will be producing the show, with Berlanti Productions currently operating under an overall deal with the studio, further solidifying the robust creative and production infrastructure in place.
This upcoming Netflix series is not the first foray into live-action for the enduring "Scooby-Doo" franchise. The most prominent precedent is the 2002 live-action film, which captivated audiences with a star-studded cast featuring Freddie Prinze Jr. as Fred, Sarah Michelle Gellar as Daphne, Matthew Lillard as Shaggy, and Linda Cardellini as Velma. Neil Fanning provided the voice of Scooby-Doo. The film proved to be a significant box office success, grossing over $250 million worldwide, a testament to the enduring popularity of the characters. This was followed by a sequel in 2004, "Scooby-Doo: Monsters Unleashed," which also performed well commercially, earning over $180 million. Prior to these theatrical releases, the franchise also explored the live-action format with the TV films "Scooby-Doo! The Mystery Begins" (2009) and its sequel, further cementing the characters’ presence beyond animation.
The "Scooby-Doo" universe, of course, originated in the animated realm, with the first series premiering in the late 1960s. Since then, the franchise has evolved through numerous animated series and films, consistently reinventing itself while maintaining its core appeal of mystery, humor, and friendship. The upcoming live-action series on Netflix represents another exciting chapter in this rich history, aiming to connect with both long-time fans and introduce the world of Mystery Inc. to a new generation of viewers. The casting choices, the modern logline, and the experienced production team all suggest a thoughtful and ambitious reimagining, one that could very well recapture the magic that has made "Scooby-Doo" a cultural phenomenon for over five decades. The anticipation for the series is palpable, as fans eagerly await the return of Scooby Snacks, the Mystery Machine, and the thrill of unmasking villains, all through the lens of live-action storytelling. The combination of established talent, a compelling narrative premise, and the backing of major production entities positions this Netflix series as a significant event for fans of the iconic canine detective and his human companions.