Taika Waititi the director of Thor Ragnarok has convinced some of the most prolific actors from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, to read Jame and the Giant Peach for charity. Joining Waititi are Chris Hemsworth, Cate Blanchett, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Lupita Nyong’o as well as beloved celebs including Meryl Streep, Ryan Reynolds, Liam Hemsworth, Mindy Kaling, Billy Porter, and Sarah Paulson.
Across the ten episodes, Waititi will read James and the Giant Peach from start to finish, with various actors appearing as characters in the story. The first two installments are available now, featuring Chris and Liam Hemsworth, Meryl Streep, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Nick Kroll. New episodes will air each Monday, Wednesday, and Friday on Youtube, for free.
This series is done in partnership with the Roald Dahl Story Company to help raise money for Partners in Help, a medical and social justice organization fighting COVID-19 and supporting public health systems in some of the most vulnerable communities around the world, which was co-founded by Roald’s daughter Ophelia.
“Roald Dahl’s stories are about the power and importance of kindness — and as a business we believe in enacting that ethos,” Luke Kelly, managing director of the Roald Dahl Story Company, said in a statement. “That’s why we support the critical work of charities such as Partners in Health who are working on the front line in the fight against COVID-19. We are so delighted to be able to support this retelling of James and the Giant Peach and not only bring a moment of joy and escapism to children and families at this very tough time — but also to raise vital funds for Partners in Health. We’re incredibly grateful and excited to have Taika and so many incredible stars taking part. We can’t wait for people to see what we’ve got in store — it’s going to be absolutely GIGANTIC fun.”