'Spy School' Series Based On Books In Works At Disney+ From Chris Fedak, Maximum Effort & Emma Watts
Deadline
β’Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:30:00 +0000
π° What Happened
Disney+ is developing 'Spy School,' a drama series based on Stuart Gibbs' bestselling book series, from Chuck co-creator Chris Fedak, Ryan Reynolds' Maximum Effort, producer Emma Watts, and 20th Television. The series follows Ben Ripley, a teenager recruited to a magnet school that turns out to be a front for a CIA academy.
π The Backstory
Stuart Gibbs' 'Spy School' book series is a popular middle-grade franchise with multiple installments. Chris Fedak is best known for co-creating and showrunning the hit NBC series 'Chuck' (2007-2012), which shares a similar blend of espionage and humour. Ryan Reynolds' Maximum Effort production company has been expanding into television development.
π― Why It Matters
The project continues Disney+'s strategy of adapting popular book series for its streaming platform, targeting the young adult and family audience. Fedak's involvement brings spy-comedy pedigree from his 'Chuck' experience, potentially positioning 'Spy School' as a franchise play.
Disney+ is developing 'Spy School,' a drama series based on Stuart Gibbs' bestselling book series, from Chuck co-creator Chris Fedak, Ryan Reynolds' Maximum Effort, producer Emma Watts, and 20th Television. The series follows Ben Ripley, a teenager recruited to a magnet school that turns out to be a front for a CIA academy.
Stuart Gibbs' 'Spy School' book series is a popular middle-grade franchise with multiple installments. Chris Fedak is best known for co-creating and showrunning the hit NBC series 'Chuck' (2007-2012), which shares a similar blend of espionage and humour. Ryan Reynolds' Maximum Effort production company has been expanding into television development.
The project continues Disney+'s strategy of adapting popular book series for its streaming platform, targeting the young adult and family audience. Fedak's involvement brings spy-comedy pedigree from his 'Chuck' experience, potentially positioning 'Spy School' as a franchise play.