Oscar-winning writer Akiva Goldsman has signed an exclusive first-look deal with MGM Television. He is working with his production company Weed Road Pictures in a multi-year deal to bring a couple of huge novels and dramas to the small screen.
The first of which is Larry Niven’s iconic novel ‘Ringworld.’ Amazon also has signed off on distributing the series, and it “tells the story of Louis Gridley Wu, a bored man celebrating his 200th birthday in a technologically advanced, future Earth.” Don’t let the description fool you as the novels really are a fascinating read, and with Goldsman’s involvement, we could be in for something special. Goldman will both write, and executive produce the show.
The second series he will have a hand in is as a producer for ‘Aurora Rising.’ This young adult show is based on the bestselling novel by the same name which was penned by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff. The rough idea behind this novel is “The year is 2380, and the graduating cadets of Aurora Academy are being assigned their first missions. Star pupil Tyler Jones is ready to recruit the squad of his dreams, but his own boneheaded heroism sees him stuck with the dregs nobody else in the academy would touch.” However, we also see Tyler rescue a girl trapped in space which could kick off an intergalactic war.
As to the new deal, Goldsman shares:
“I couldn’t be more excited to work with MGM. Their creative and business acumen, thoughtful attention to storytelling, and excellent executives make them optimal collaborators in today’s ever-changing television landscape.”
For MGM, Steve Stark, President of TV production and development also stated:
“Akiva is a powerhouse talent with impeccable taste and creative instincts. MGM is thrilled to be in business with him and our entire team looks forward to our collaboration on Ringworld and to the many distinctive and quality projects that lie ahead together.”
Personally, I’m thrilled to see a live-action take on ‘Ringworld’ make its way into production. I’m quite eager to see how this one ends up moving forward. This is also another genre television show that Goldsman is working on to be excited for as he was recently working with Neil Gaiman on ‘Gormenghast‘.
Are you thrilled at the news that Akiva Goldsman will be working with MGM Television? Do you feel that ‘Ringworld’ and ‘Aurora Rising’ are the perfect shows to compliment his writing talents? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Source: Deadline
