Peac**k is officially advancing its live-action adaptation of Matt Dinniman’s bestselling LitRPG book series, Dungeon Crawler Carl. According to NBC and Peac**k Scripted Content President Lisa Katz, the production team is meeting with prospective directors, preparing for casting sessions, and aiming for a 2027 filming start date.
These updates follow the opening of the show’s writers room, where scripts are actively being developed. Universal and Peac**k moved quickly to secure the project, drawn by its distinctive science-fantasy source material and explosive fanbase.
Production Status and Soft Prep Underway
During a panel at New York Comic Con, Universal Global Television scripted series executive Kelsey Balance shared behind-the-scenes insights into the timeline. Describing the process as building the plane while flying, Balance noted that the series has entered soft prep.
The production team is hiring department heads, searching for line producers, production designers, directors, and casting staff. The goal is to have every script written before cameras roll in 2027, ensuring a cohesive vision for the effects-heavy adaptation. While an exact premiere date remains unannounced, major announcements are expected soon.
What Is Dungeon Crawler Carl About?
The series adapts Dinniman’s hit sci-fi comedy novels, which take place after an alien invasion wipes out most of humanity. The remaining survivors are thrust into a sadistic, televised intergalactic game show set inside a massive dungeon.
The story follows Carl, a Coast Guard veteran forced to navigate lethal trials wearing only boxer shorts and bare feet. His unlikely partner is Princess Donut the Queen Anne Chonk, his ex-girlfriend’s award-winning show cat who gains the ability to talk. Together, they battle monsters, aliens, and an insane artificial intelligence system for a galactic audience.
The Creative Team and Casting Updates
The adaptation brings together an experienced creative team. Chris Yost (Thor: Ragnarok) and Eric Heisserer (Arrival, Shadow and Bone) serve as showrunners and executive producers. Seth MacFarlane executive produces through his Fuzzy Door banner alongside Erica Huggins and Rachel Hargreaves-Heald, with author Matt Dinniman on board as a co-executive producer.
While the role of Carl is not yet cast, Dinniman wants an actor who can balance goofy comedy with a genuinely menacing presence when the character loses his temper. In a win for fans, Jeff Hays-who narrates the Dungeon Crawler Carl audiobooks-will return to voice the talking cat, Princess Donut, in the television series.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Peac**k’s Dungeon Crawler Carl start filming?
Production is scheduled to begin filming in 2027, with full pre-production ramping up in the months prior.
Who is writing and showrunning the series?
Chris Yost and Eric Heisserer serve as the showrunners and executive producers for the Peac**k adaptation.
Who is voicing Princess Donut?
Jeff Hays, the voice actor behind the original audiobooks, will return to voice Princess Donut in the live-action series.
Has Carl been cast yet?
No actor has been officially cast to play Carl yet, though producers are meeting with directors and preparing for casting sessions.
What studio is producing Dungeon Crawler Carl?
The live-action adaptation hails from Universal Global Television and Seth MacFarlane’s production company, Fuzzy Door.
