Whether you like them in a box, with a fox, in a house, or with a mouse, Netflix hopes you’ll like Green Eggs and Ham, as the streaming service is turning the classic Dr. Seuss kid’s book into a TV series.
The concept of Dr. Seuss classics on television, particularly his popular character the Cat in the Hat, is certainly nothing new. But it’s an interesting twist to bring the popular book, which sees Sam-I-Am trying persistently to convince a reluctant character to try green eggs and ham, to Netflix
The Netflix animated TV version, which will be executive produced by comedian and daytime television host Ellen DeGeneres and adapted by Jared Stern (The LEGO Movie Sequel), will consist of 13 episodes. Executive producing alongside DeGeneres will be Jeff Kleeman, Mike Karz, and David Dobkin. Ellen made the announcement on her show in the following video.
The news of this latest family/kid’s programming addition was cleverly delivered in a press release written in signature Dr. Seuss rhyming style.
“We’d love to share some happy news,” the announcement begins, “based on the rhymes of Dr. Seuss. Green Eggs and Ham will become a show, and you’re among the first to know.”
According to the further details (yes, presented in that same style), the show will follow the Sam-I-Am character and his inventor friend, Guy, as they travel across the country, learning to try new things. Whether this is a strictly culinary trip, or if the adventures will include new “things” other than edible dishes, remains to be seen. But Netflix does confirm that ham will be consumed, along with its faithful companion, those delicious green eggs.
Continuing in the Netflix style, the release included a comment from a key executive. “Cindy Holland, VP of Original Content for Netflix — threw her quote into the mix — ‘We think this will be a hit — Green Eggs and Ham is a perfect fit – for our growing slate of amazing stories — available exclusively in all Netflix territories.”
Why let bedtime get all the glory? This adaptation will bring Netflix the story. What are the kids watching? Mom and dad won’t have to cringe. And the kids can curl up with all 13 episodes to binge.