Prime Video is developing Dorothy, a new music-infused young adult series from creator Gina Matthews. The show is a contemporary reimagining of The Wizard of Oz, based on L. Frank Baum’s classic books.
Produced under Matthews’ Little Engine label, the series will use the iconic Yellow Brick Road as a metaphor for the challenges and choices facing young people today.
The project features a high-profile team of non-writing executive producers, including musician Gwen Stefani, alongside Blake Shelton and Lee Metzger of Lucky Horseshoe. Grant Scharbo of Little Engine and Patrick Moran will also serve as executive producers.
“I’ve been in love with The Wizard of Oz books since I was a child,” said Matthews, whose producing credits include 13 Going on 30 and Isn’t It Romantic. “The story reminds us of the qualities we need to get through hard times, and Dorothy is a symbol of strength who shows us that with a little kindness—and a lot of grit—we can not only achieve great things but also lift up those around us.”
The creative team expressed collective enthusiasm for reinventing the cherished story. “I’m such a fan of everyone involved and couldn’t ask for a more exciting partnership,” Moran stated. Scharbo added, “We’re thrilled to embark on this journey with Amazon and believe Dorothy will enchant a whole new generation of viewers.”
Shelton noted that the concept immediately resonated with him. “I’m so grateful that Gina shared the idea with me and Lee,” he said. “I knew right away it was something Gwen would connect with. Her creativity and perspective are such a natural fit for this project.”
Stefani, a three-time Grammy-winning artist and longtime coach on NBC’s The Voice, shared her excitement. “It’s a creative and modern take on a classic, and being part of something that blends music, emotion, and the character of Dorothy is inspiring to me,” she said.
Shelton is a nine-time Grammy nominee and platinum-selling country artist who also coached on The Voice for 23 seasons. His producing credits include the Hallmark franchise Time for… to Come Home for Christmas and USA Network’s Barmageddon.
