Disney+ partners with NPO on Dutch adaptation of strategy game 'Werewolves'
Streamer joins hands with Dutch broadcaster NPO on local adaptation of hit board game format
Disney+ is expanding its European unscripted slate with a Dutch adaptation of the strategy competition format Werewolves, produced in partnership with public broadcaster NPO.
The new series, titled Wolven: Het Spel Van List En Bedrog, is based on the cult social deduction board game and follows a group of contestants competing in a remote village setting.
Dutch adaptation of hit strategy format
The show places a group of strangers in a secluded forest village, where they are divided into “Villagers” and hidden “Werewolves” who secetly work against the group, as per Deadline.
Contestants must identify the traitors among them while avoiding elimination, with the hidden Werewolves attempting to remove players one by one to claim victory.
The format has been compared to other deception-based reality shows such as The Traitors, which has seen strong international success.
Local broadcasters and Disney+ share release strategy
The Dutch version is being produced by Banijay Benelux label SimpelZodiak and originally commissioned through French broadcaster Canal+, where the format first gained traction in scripted and unscripted adaptations.
Episodes will premiere simultaneously on NPO 1 and streaming platforms NPO Start and Disney+ starting August 29, with weekly releases planned.
Growing push for local European originals
The project forms part of Disney+’s broader strategy to expand local-language content across Europe through partnerships with national broadcasters.
In recent months, the streamer has struck similar agreements with broadcasters in Spain, Italy, the UK, and Germany, allowing local productions to reach wider digital audiences.
Disney+ EMEA general manager Karl Holmes said the show aims to deliver “intrigue that keeps you guessing” and highlighted its appeal as a shared viewing experience.
“We’re delighted to be bringing it to Disney+ audiences in the Netherlands,” he said, adding that partnerships with broadcasters help “bring great local shows to new and younger audiences.”
Format expansion across Europe
Werewolves is part of a broader international format portfolio distributed by Studiocanal and Dreamspark, with adaptations already produced in multiple European markets including France and Germany.
The Dutch version continues that expansion, positioning the format within the growing trend of social deduction reality series that combine strategy, psychology, and competition.
