Disney+ is developing a television series based on Stuart Gibbs' "Spy School" novels, with Ryan Reynolds' Maximum Effort production company attached to produce. The adaptation draws from a 14-book franchise that launched in 2012, with the latest installment arriving in October 2026.
The series follows Ben Ripley, the central character through Gibbs' spy-thriller books aimed at middle-grade audiences. Disney has found considerable success mining this demographic with adaptable IP, particularly through streaming originals that target younger viewers and their families. Maximum Effort, Reynolds' production banner, has become increasingly active in development across multiple platforms beyond Reynolds' acting roles.
"Spy School" represents exactly the type of property Disney+ pursues: established literary IP with built-in fanbases, serialized storytelling potential across multiple seasons, and crossover appeal that reaches both children and parents. Gibbs wrote the first book over a decade ago, establishing a proven track record with readers. The franchise's longevity, with a new book arriving in 2026, ensures fresh material could feed future seasons if the adaptation gains traction.
Reynolds and Maximum Effort have grown beyond his on-screen work, functioning as a legitimate production entity developing projects across different mediums and networks. This positioning allows Reynolds to leverage his industry capital and brand without necessarily anchoring every project to his performance.
The spy-adventure-comedy space remains competitive on streaming. Disney+ houses other action-comedies aimed at younger audiences, though a dedicated "Spy School" series could carve out distinct space with Gibbs' specific blend of humor, mystery, and coming-of-age storytelling. The books balance lighthearted comedy with genuine plotting, appealing to readers who enjoy adventure without darkness.
No casting, writers, or timeline has been announced. Production details remain sparse at this early development stage. The project joins