Star cast in The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar

Richard Ayoade has reportedly joined the cast of the Netflix adaptation of Roald Dahl’s The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar.

His role in the project was not revealed by Hollywood website Deadline, which broke the news.

The star-studded cast also includes Benedict Cumberbatch, Dev Patel, Ralph Fiennes and Ben Kingsley  – all previously announced – plus Rupert Friend, whose name was also revealed tonight.

The original book is an anthology of  several short stories, with Deadline reporting the Netflix version will comprise three mini-films. Production is expected to start next week in London.

Netflix acquired the full Dahl story catalogue in September, and is said to be planning a huge range of projects.

Already in the works are a series from Taika Waititi and Phil Johnston based on the world of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory and an adaptation of Matilda The Musical, co-written by Tim Minchin.

Ayoade has just stood down from Channel 4’s Travel Man after nine series, to be replaced by Joe Lycett.

Published: 12 Jan 2022