Netflix Is Making a Live-Action Dungeons & Dragons Series About Darklord Strahd Von Zarovich's Origin Story

Netflix is developing a live-action Dungeons & Dragons series focusing on the vampire villain Darklord Strahd von Zarovich from the gothic-horror campaign, Ravenloft. The series is set to be a "prestige fantasy series" where adventure meets gothic horror and tragic romance, according to Variety. The story will explore the origins of Strahd von Zarovich, tracing his transformation from a tragic antihero to one of the most notorious villains in Dungeons & Dragons.

Created by John August, the show is being executive produced by Alfonso Cuarón, Gabriel Marano, Richard Schwartz, and Gaby Rodriguez. Strahd von Zarovich, originally a prince and warlord, made a pact with the Dark Powers in his middle age to gain immortality, a deal that involved killing his own brother for the chance to marry his sister-in-law.

However, his sister-in-law committed suicide by leaping off a cliff to escape her undead husband. Additionally, a new Dungeons & Dragons game called Dungeons & Dragons: Warlock was unveiled at gamescom, starring Tricia Helfer and Maggie Robertson, further delighting D&D fans. This news comes after Wizards of the Coast released Ravenloft: The Horrors Within expansion in April 2026, providing an updated version of the original story for the Season of Horror event.