Dungeon crawler carl book series heads to peacock as live-action tv show

San Diego Comic-Con attendees got a major update on the popular sci-fi adventure series Dungeon Crawler Carl, which is poised to become the first mainstream entry in the LitRPG genre for Western readers. At the convention, author Matt Dinniman announced that actor Jeff Hays will voice Princess Donut, the beloved feline character who often steals the spotlight in the books. Hays is already the narrator for the audiobook version, ensuring a seamless storytelling experience across both mediums.

From page to screen

The series follows Carl, a U.S. Coast Guard veteran, and his ex-girlfriend's prized cat as they enter an intergalactic game show where they must survive treacherous dungeons. This high-stakes, action-packed narrative blends elements of The Running Man and Ready Player One with the humor of James Gunn's films. With eight books already on shelves, and two more planned to conclude the series, Dungeon Crawler Carl is a phenomenon that has captivated a wide audience.

The show, currently in development under Seth MacFarlane's Fuzzy Door, will stream exclusively on Peacock once it premieres. Initially reported in August 2024 by Deadline, the project has since undergone significant development, with MacFarlane announcing the sale to Peacock in June. Dinniman confirmed in April 2026 that the live-action adaptation will be the final form, acknowledging fan demand for animation while emphasizing the risks and rewards of the chosen approach.