Disney Just Bought the Next ‘Harry Potter’ in Massive Seven-Figure Deal
Disney is making its boldest move into the world of fantasy storytelling yet — and fans are already buzzing. The company has just locked down the rights to a wildly popular book series that some are calling “the next Harry Potter,” and it’s a deal that could shape the future of Disney’s movie empire for years to come.
A Game-Changing Deal
The company has officially acquired the film and ancillary rights to Impossible Creatures, a bestselling fantasy saga by Katherine Rundell. The deal reportedly came with a jaw-dropping seven-figure price tag, a clear sign that Disney isn’t just interested in dipping into fantasy — it wants to build an empire.
Rundell, who became the first U.K. children’s author since J.K. Rowling to top both U.S. and U.K. children’s book charts at the same time, is also set to adapt the screenplay herself. That means Disney is getting more than a story; it’s securing the creative voice behind the books too.
What the Story Is About
Impossible Creatures takes place in the Glimouria Archipelago, a hidden world of magical creatures and fading magic. It follows Christopher, a boy who stumbles upon this secret realm, and Mal, a girl on the run, as they try to discover why the world’s magic is dying.
The series already has two published installments — Impossible Creatures (2023) and The Poisoned King (2025) — with three more books planned. It has sold over a million copies across more than 30 territories, setting the stage for a massive franchise opportunity.
Why This Matters for Disney
Disney CEO Bob Iger has been open about wanting to bring fresh, big-scale stories to life. He called the series “vibrant and full of possibilities,” and emphasized how closely the author will work with the studio.
This kind of creative partnership isn’t something Disney gets with every property. It means the studio can develop films, shows, and even potential park experiences from the ground up, much like how Warner Bros. Pictures grew the Harry Potter universe.
A New Era of Fantasy
For years, fans have wondered if Disney would ever have its own Harry Potter-level franchise. With this acquisition, the company may have just found it. The combination of a proven bestselling story, passionate fans, and Disney’s global platform is a recipe for something huge.
No release date has been announced yet, but one thing is clear — the magic is only just beginning.
