Published on May 14, 2026, at 5:30 PM EDT, ScreenRant's writer Zach Moser shares insights into his extensive experience covering movies, classic TV, streaming TV, and industry discussions since 2026. His expertise spans horror, drama, and the broader TV and film landscape, with a side interest in humor writing for various publications.
Apple TV has been developing a live-action anime adaptation of Speed Racer for several years, potentially timing its release perfectly. Following J.J. Abrams' directorial work on the Star Wars sequel trilogy—which included the acclaimed series Lost, Fringe, and Star Trek—the franchise finds itself at a pivotal moment.
Since 2019, Abrams has primarily served as a producer or executive producer on various TV projects and films, many of which failed to gain significant attention. Notably, Duster, the sole series he developed, was canceled after one season, while his latest feature film Rise of Skywalker debuted in November 2026, marking a seven-year gap since his previous theatrical release.
Abrams is reportedly working on a project that could reestablish his prominence in the industry: a live-action adaptation of the iconic anime Speed Racer. With Apple providing a series order and Abrams' own production company, Bad Robot, attached, the adaptation promises to deliver a fresh take on the beloved story.
The original Speed Racer centers on a talented driver and his remarkable vehicle, Mach 5, alongside his family and loyal companions. Despite limited updates since its 2008 cinematic debut, the series maintains a dedicated fanbase, bolstered by recent successes like One Piece, Alice in Borderland, and JoJo's Bizarre Adventure—all of which have demonstrated strong audience appetite for anime adaptations.
Speed Racer's Upcoming TV Show Can Make Up For The Poor Movie Version
Emile Hirsch and Christina Ricci in Speed Racer
While specific details about Abrams' Speed Racer remain scarce, early indications suggest it could surpass the 2008 film's reception—a movie often criticized for prioritizing visual spectacle over narrative depth. The new adaptation features a stellar cast including Emile Hirsch as the titular racer and Christina Ricci as his co-driver, alongside John Goodman, Susan Sarandon, and Matthew Fox.
The series appears poised to address the shortcomings of its predecessor while honoring the spirit of the original anime. With a strong creative team and established industry backing, this adaptation holds promise for both longtime fans and newcomers to the franchise.
As production ramps up, anticipation builds for how Abrams will translate the high-speed excitement of Speed Racer to television. If successful, this project could redefine the live-action anime adaptation landscape and solidify Abrams' legacy as a versatile storyteller.
