Netflix should make documentary exploring the antisemitism that tarnishes Roald Dahl’s legacy

Board of Deputies President Marie van der Zyl has reacted to news that Netflix has taken over the estate of writer Roald Dahl.

Marie said: “The virulent antisemitism of Roald Dahl is well-known, and has sadly marred the full enjoyment of his works for many Jewish (and other) people. We do not believe that Netflix should be prefacing every film and TV series it adapts from Dahl’s works with disclaimers about his bigotry. However, we fear that, as part of Netflix’s stated plans to create a “unique universe” around his works, a by-product of that may be to present Dahl – whether on-screen or off it – as some sort of paragon of kindness and virtue. To avoid such an approach, Netflix should produce a documentary fully exploring the antisemitism that so tarnishes Dahl’s legacy. Failure to do so will not go unnoticed.”