Despite several months passing with no updates since its initial October 2023 reveal, the live-action Gargoyles adaptation for Disney+ is still in development.
The project brings together Gary Dauberman, serving as writer, executive producer, and showrunner, and James Wan's Atomic Monster, the production company behind the Annabelle horror films.
Dauberman recently shared an optimistic update, emphasizing his goal to capture the spirit of the beloved '90s animated series.
"Oh, yes, another beloved piece of IP. This new iteration of “Gargoyles”… The show was already pretty dark in that it was serialized, it was a mature thing, it’s operatic and the story was so epic," Dauberman told Variety.
He further elaborated on the desired atmosphere, saying, "I’m hoping it’s very similar to the vibe that you got when you were watching it back in the late ’90s. I just loved that half hour of television, falling into their world. I’m hoping we achieve that. It’s a lot of fun, though — it’s a thrill."
In a separate interview with Comicbook, Dauberman reiterated that the live-action show, similar to the original cartoon, will also explore dark and mature content.
"[It] will be challenging. [But we are] talking to some great people. We are still keeping that darkness to it. I’m excited to see the animated [series] come to life," he told the site.
He went on to add, "I feel like we have the animated series already. The cartoon is so good. It’s so good. That’s what we fell in love with. I think it lends itself to a really cool live-action version."
The original Gargoyles series, which aired from 1994 to 1997 under the Walt Disney Television Animation banner, stood out for its mature themes and darker tone—rare for animated shows of this era.
The story centered on a clan of ancient gargoyles who, after being cursed to sleep for a thousand years, awaken in modern-day New York City and vow to protect their new home from danger.
Fans continue to revere Keith David’s unforgettable performance as Goliath, the noble leader of the gargoyles—his deep, commanding voice becoming a defining trait of the character.
While casting for the upcoming live-action adaptation has yet to be announced, longtime viewers are passionately hoping David returns to the role, with many finding it hard to imagine anyone else capturing Goliath’s powerful presence.
Dauberman's comments suggest that he's fully committed to honoring the darker, more mature themes that distinguished the original Gargoyles, promising a faithful adaptation for both longtime fans and a new generation.
As development continues, be sure to check back for updates on casting and a potential release window for this highly anticipated Disney+ series.