The world of R.L. Stine is set to haunt our screens once again, as a fresh adaptation of the iconic “Goosebumps” series is on the horizon. Scheduled for a grand premiere on Disney+ and Hulu on October 13, the series introduces us to five curious high school students. Their quest? To unravel the mystery surrounding the death of Harold Biddle, a teenager whose life was tragically cut short three decades ago. But as they dig deeper, they stumble upon unsettling secrets, ones that tie their own parents to the dark past of the Biddle house.
Leading the ensemble is the talented Justin Long, portraying Mr. Nathan Bratt, the town’s new English teacher. Bratt’s decision to move into the old Biddle residence sets the stage for a series of eerie events. The trailer teases a conversation between Bratt and a character named Nora, played by the versatile Rachael Harris, hinting at the house’s haunted reputation.
Joining the narrative are teenagers James (Miles McKenna), Margot (Isa Briones), Isaiah (Zack Morris), Isabella (Ana Yi Puig), and Lucas (Will Price). Their adventurous exploration of the Biddle home takes a dark turn when apparitions, presumably of Harold, begin to manifest.
This 10-episode series isn’t just a random pick from Stine’s vast collection. It meticulously weaves narratives from five standout novels: “Say Cheese and Die!“, “The Haunted Mask”, “The Cuckoo Clock of Doom“, “Go Eat Worms!“, and “Night of the Living Dummy“. With over 400 million copies of Stine’s books sold in 32 languages, the series has a rich tapestry to draw from.
Justin Long assures that the series will be a treat for all, stating, “A lot of these stories will be a total surprise.” He emphasizes the series’ ability to evoke a range of emotions, from fear to laughter to tears.
Ayo Davis, the president of Disney Branded Television, encapsulated the excitement surrounding the series, highlighting its potential to resonate with a diverse audience, from newbies to those who grew up with Stine’s tales.
Mark your calendars for October 13, as “Goosebumps” promises a rollercoaster of emotions, with the first five episodes dropping on Disney+ and Hulu, followed by weekly releases.