Disney has given an early Christmas gift to Rick Riordan enthusiasts, launching “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” on Disney+ and Hulu a night ahead of its scheduled premiere on Dec. 20.
This marks the second tweak to Disney’s release strategy. Last week, they disclosed that the series’ first episode would debut on both Hulu and Disney+, available for streaming until Jan. 31. Currently, Disney+ offers the first two episodes, while Hulu exclusively hosts the premiere episode. Subsequent episodes will follow a weekly release schedule on Disney+, culminating in the Season 1 finale on Jan. 31.
Pamela Levine, head of marketing at Disney Branded Television and National Geographic Content, expressed gratitude to the ardent Percy Jackson fanbase. As a special token of appreciation, Disney decided to grant fans an early viewing of the first two episodes.
Anticipation has been fervent within the Percy Jackson community. Rick Riordan introduced the inaugural installment of the five-book “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” series in 2005. While 20th Century Fox adapted the first two books into films in 2010 and 2013, deviations in plot and Riordan’s dissatisfaction led to their lackluster reception. Notably, the remaining trio of books has yet to grace the screen.
In stark contrast, Riordan assumes dual roles as both writer and executive producer for the Disney+ series, with plans for five seasons corresponding to the five books. In an October cover story for Variety, Karey Burke, president of 20th Television, highlighted the studio’s ambition to adapt “all” of Riordan’s works within the expansive Percy Jackson universe, extending beyond the original five books. Commending Riordan’s open-minded approach to his creations, Burke expressed enthusiasm for exploring and adapting the broader narrative universe woven by the author.
Disney’s surprise release of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” on Disney+ and Hulu, a night ahead of schedule, adds an extra layer of excitement for fans eagerly awaiting the adaptation of Rick Riordan’s beloved series. With an appreciative nod to the dedicated fanbase, Disney’s unique approach to the release strategy aims to make the viewing experience even more memorable during the festive season.
