FridayOL

In a surprising revelation coinciding with the 20th anniversary of The Lightning Thief, the first book in Rick Riordan's wildly popular Percy Jackson series, the author has admitted he's never actually seen the film adaptations. Riordan, known for his meticulous involvement in the Disney+ series, explained his reasoning in an exclusive interview, shedding light on his creative process and the importance of staying true to the original vision of his books.

The Lightning Thief, which launched a generation of readers into the world of Greek mythology reimagined for a modern audience, will celebrate its 20th anniversary on June 28, 2025. This milestone marks not only two decades of captivating storytelling but also a period of immense growth and evolution for Riordan as an author.

“It's a weird thing to admit, but I’ve never watched the movies,” Riordan stated. “And it wasn’t a conscious decision to avoid them. It just...never happened. I've been so focused on the books and, more recently, the Disney+ series, that I just haven't had the time or inclination to sit down and watch them.”

The author’s decision isn’t about disinterest in the films themselves, but rather a commitment to maintaining the integrity of the Percy Jackson universe. “I think it’s important for me to stay focused on the source material,” he explained. “The films had their own creative choices, and that’s fine. But I want to make sure that anything that carries the Percy Jackson name accurately reflects the world and characters I created.”

This dedication to the source material is evident in the highly acclaimed Disney+ series, which Riordan has been heavily involved in producing. The series has been praised for its faithfulness to the books, its strong casting choices, and its overall quality. Riordan has been actively engaged in the writing and production process, ensuring that the show aligns with his vision.

“With the Disney+ series, I’ve been able to be much more involved,” Riordan said. “I’m in the writers' room, I’m on set, I’m part of the creative process from beginning to end. That’s been incredibly rewarding, and it allows me to ensure that the series stays true to the spirit of the books.”

The 20th anniversary of The Lightning Thief is a significant moment for Riordan and his fans. It’s a chance to reflect on the impact of the series, celebrate the characters that have become beloved icons, and look forward to the future of the Percy Jackson universe. Riordan has hinted at more stories to come, promising to continue exploring the world of demigods and mythology for years to come.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the support of my readers,” Riordan concluded. “It’s been an amazing journey, and I’m excited to see what the next 20 years will bring.”