December 2023 marked the much-anticipated debut of Percy Jackson and the Olympians, which entered the spotlight amid lofty expectations. Fans, disheartened by prior film adaptations of Rick Riordan’s iconic book series, were eager to see if the new show could deliver. It exceeded expectations, quickly rising to the top of the Disney+ charts. As the series heads towards the Children’s and Family Emmys on March 15 in Los Angeles, it boasts an impressive 16 nominations, more than any other contender this year.
Reflecting on this success, co-showrunner Jonathan E. Steinberg shared insights with The Hollywood Reporter, stating, “Any time you’re in a production like this one, where everybody cares and is invested not just in the material but also in one another, it creates a fantastic atmosphere. It’s great for the team to receive this level of recognition.”
Expectations and Audience Connection
What were your expectations going into the first season regarding audience reception?
Steinberg acknowledged the complexity of the term “expectations.”He aspired for the series to resonate with audiences of all ages, creating a dynamic viewing experience for both children and their parents. “We wanted to craft a show that everyone could enjoy together, and even those without kids might find it engaging,” he explained, underscoring the goal of universal appeal.
Future Seasons and Character Growth
How does the show’s successful performance influence your approach for future seasons?
As the storyline progresses, Steinberg noted a desire to allow the narrative to evolve alongside its audience. “As our characters and the actors mature, the story will naturally take on more complexity,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of preserving the show’s emotional core while expanding its thematic depth.
Working with Young Talent
What challenges did you face working with child actors, especially regarding production schedules?
Steinberg highlighted the production’s commitment to the young cast and their families, assuring that their well-being was prioritized. “While this commitment does introduce certain challenges, the benefits of working with young actors who genuinely embody their characters far outweigh the difficulties,” he noted, praising the impressive ability of the children to balance their acting careers with schooling.
Visual Effects and Storytelling
Which moments from season one align most closely with your original vision for the show?
Steinberg praised both the internal visual effects team and Industrial Light & Magic for their exceptional work. “You quickly learn to set high standards for visual storytelling, and the results have been stunning,” he remarked, specifically mentioning the successful portrayals of the Minotaur and the Chimera as highlights that exceeded initial expectations.
Planning for the Future
Have there been any conversations about a third season yet?
Engagement regarding future seasons is certainly underway, according to Steinberg. He mentioned, “Although nothing is official at this point, our discussions with Disney reflect a shared eagerness to progress and have a well-thought-out plan moving forward. We expect to return to production soon.”
Continuity and Adaptation
Does having the books guide your approach to the upcoming season, The Titan’s Curse?
From the outset of season one, Steinberg envisioned the narrative as part of a larger saga. “Understanding the continuity of Rick’s storytelling offers us a comprehensive framework for adaptation,” he stated, indicating that planning for subsequent seasons began alongside the first. “These discussions have been ongoing since season one, as they are all interconnected parts of an overarching tale.”
This article originally appeared in the March 6 issue of The Hollywood Reporter. Click here to subscribe.