When the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series finally arrived on Disney+ in 2023, it captured the attention of both long-time fans and newcomers. This fresh adaptation of the beloved YA book series is everything fans have been waiting for, offering a faithful retelling that the previous movies failed to deliver. Even author Rick Riordan has spoken out, explaining why this new version far outshines the Percy Jackson films.
The Percy Jackson Show vs. The Movies: A Closer Look
The Percy Jackson movies, released in 2010 and 2013, were widely considered disappointing by fans of the books. While the films captured some elements of the stories, they ultimately missed the mark on many key aspects, from casting choices to the tone of the characters and plot.
Fans of the book series felt that the movies didn’t do justice to the rich world Rick Riordan had created. This led to a significant outcry from fans who longed for a more faithful adaptation. When it was announced that a new Percy Jackson Disney+ series was in the works, excitement soared—especially with the news that Riordan himself would be involved in the production.
This ensured that the adaptation would stay true to the heart of the books, something fans had been craving for years. With a focus on character development, plot accuracy, and a faithful representation of the beloved Greek mythology, the series promised to deliver what the films couldn’t.
Why Rick Riordan Prefers the New Series
Rick Riordan has been vocal about his preference for the new TV series over the movies, and he’s made it clear that he has no intention of revisiting the old films. On January 16, 2024, Riordan took to social media to share his excitement about the new show. He specifically called out a scene where Percy, Annabeth, and Grover visit the Lotus Hotel and Casino:
“Can’t wait to visit the Lotus Casino tonight in Percy Jackson 106! Iris-messaging, animals run amok, Hermes and much much more!”
He continued, “(Side note: as much as I love Lady Gaga, if some of you seriously think I’d allow any callbacks to certain movies, you haven’t been paying attention for the last decade. The show is its own thing. And imo [in my opinion] it’s so much better!)”
For Riordan, the series represents a fresh start—a chance to bring his vision to life in a way that the movies never could. The characters’ personalities, relationships, and adventures are now brought to life with more depth and authenticity than ever before.
Record-Breaking Success on Disney+ and Hulu
The buzz surrounding the new Percy Jackson series isn’t just about its quality—it’s also about its popularity. The show’s first episode was a massive hit, attracting 26.2 million views in its first three weeks on Disney+ and Hulu.
Moreover, the first five episodes surpassed 10 million views during their first week, proving that fans are embracing the new adaptation. This success is a testament to the enduring popularity of Riordan’s books and the strong demand for a faithful retelling of the Percy Jackson saga.
The high viewership numbers indicate that the show’s appeal goes beyond just book fans. New viewers are discovering the world of Percy Jackson for the first time, proving that the series has universal appeal.
The Show’s Success: No Surprise to Fans
For those familiar with the books, the show’s success is hardly surprising. Fans have been waiting for years for an adaptation that truly honors the source material. From the casting of Walker Scobell as Percy Jackson to the show’s commitment to staying true to the book’s storylines and humor, the series is everything fans have asked for.
The positive reception from critics and fans alike shows that the show is meeting (and often exceeding) expectations. Whether it’s the exciting adventures or the faithful representation of the characters, the series has captured the essence of Percy Jackson and brought it to life in a way the movies never did.
Lance Reddick’s Powerful Portrayal of Zeus
A standout moment in the first season of Percy Jackson is Lance Reddick’s portrayal of Zeus. Tragically, Reddick passed away on March 17, 2023, but his portrayal of the powerful god left a lasting impression on fans. His presence as Zeus was both intimidating and captivating, making him one of the most memorable parts of the show.
Producer Dan Shotz recently shared his thoughts on working with Reddick, describing the experience as “incredible.” Shotz reflected on Reddick’s ability to connect with the younger cast, saying:
“It was an incredible experience with him. We miss him dearly, and I think the thing that I look back most [on] is his connection to the kids. Showing up as his Zeus, the kids were intimidated. Not only because it's Lance Reddick, but also this character that's been built up all season; seeing him and how powerful he is.”
What’s Next for Percy Jackson?
The second season of Percy Jackson and the Olympians is scheduled to release on December 10, 2025. The show has already been renewed for a third season, which will air after the second. Watch the official season two trailer below!
So, do you agree with Rick Riordan that the new Percy Jackson series outshines the films? Or do you still have a soft spot for the movie adaptations? Share your thoughts with Disney Fanatic below! We love hearing from fellow Percy Jackson fans, and we can’t wait to read your comments.
