Showrunner Bobs Gannaway talks bringing Apple TV+’s “WondLa” to life [Interview]

In a recent interview, Bobs Gannaway, the showrunner for Apple TV+’s “WondLa,” shared insights into the making of the series. Gannaway discussed the casting process, the adaptation from book to screen, and the show’s underlying themes. Bobs Gannaway is the showrunner and executive producer of the animated series “WondLa” for Apple TV+. The series is based on the book series “The Search for WondLa” by Tony DiTerlizzi and follows a teenager named Eva who is raised in an underground bunker and forced to the surface after an attack. The surface is now inhabited by aliens and other strange creatures, and Eva must find her way home with the help of new friends.

Interview with Apple TV+’s “WondLa” Showrunner Bobs Gannaway

Gannaway emphasized the importance of authenticity in casting. He described a “blind casting” approach, where the team listens to voices while looking at character images to determine if the voice feels like it genuinely belongs to the character. He also highlighted the significance of actors’ emotional range, citing Eva as an example of a character who experiences a wide array of emotions throughout the series.

A Collaborative Effort

Gannaway expressed his admiration for Tony DiTerlizzi, the author of the “WondLa” books, and his willingness to allow the creative team to “play with his toys.” Gannaway acknowledged the challenge of adapting the books to the screen but emphasized that the limited series format allowed for a more comprehensive realization of the books’ world and story than a single movie could have achieved.

The series explores themes like environmentalism and the impact of technology. Gannaway explained that the show presents different cultures with varying levels of technological advancement, encouraging young viewers to consider that there isn’t just one way to live or one type of technology. Throughout the interview, Gannaway emphasized the collaborative nature of the project. He highlighted the contributions of the cast, Tony DiTerlizzi, and the entire creative team in bringing the world of “WondLa” to life. Overall, the interview provided a glimpse into the creative process behind “WondLa” and the thoughtful considerations that went into adapting the beloved book series for television.

Catch the series premiere of Wondla exclusively on Apple TV+ this Friday, June 28, 2024.

Produced by Skydance Animation and developed by showrunner Bobs Gannaway, the series promises an unforgettable adventure. The seven-episode first season of WondLa is finally here! So, catch the series premiere exclusively on Apple TV+ this Friday, June 28, 2024. Want to watch WondLa? New Apple TV+ subscribers get a 7-day free trial, so you can watch the premiere for free before deciding to subscribe.

Eva emerges into a world utterly transformed. Earth is now Orbona, an alien planet teeming with strange life and otherworldly landscapes. With no other humans to be found, Eva embarks on a perilous quest to uncover her origins and destiny. Fortunately, she is not alone. By her side is Otto, a lovable giant water bear voiced by Emmy Award winner Brad Garrett. As well as Rovender, a grumpy alien with a hidden past, played by Gary Anthony Williams.

Moreover, the stellar cast includes Chiké Okonkwo as Besteel, Orbona’s most formidable hunter. D.C. Douglas plays as Omnipod, a sentient device given to every human child. Finally, Emmy Award nominee Alan Tudyk as Cadmus Pryde, the founder of Dynastes Corporation.
“WondLa” is set to be an epic animated journey filled with heartwarming characters, thrilling action, and a captivating story. Therefore, don’t miss its premiere on Apple TV+.

For More Wondla Coverage check out:

Teri Hatcher stars as the voice of Muthr in Apple TV+ series “WondLa” [Interview]

Jeanine Mason stars as Eva in the AppleTV+ Series “Wondla” [Interview]

Tony DiTerlizzi on adapting “The Search for WondLa” into animated series “Wondla”