Science fiction juggernaut Legendary Television has acquired the television rights to bestselling author Neal Stephenson’s critically acclaimed post-apocalyptic novel “Seveneves.” Adapting Stephenson’s ambitious tale of humanity’s fight for survival promises to be an epic undertaking befitting the studio’s reputation for big-budget, imaginative adaptations.
Skewing more hard sci-fi than your average dystopian drama, “Seveneves” spans millennia to chronicle the ingenuity and evolution of our species facing imminent extinction. When a mysterious force destroys the moon, trigging a global catastrophe, scientists must establish a sanctuary in space just two years before near-Earth orbit becomes uninhabitable.
With a background that includes working with tech luminaries like Jeff Bezos and Peter Thiel, Stephenson brings unparalleled scientific rigor to envisioning humanity’s high-tech future. “The depth of his research and extraordinary attention to scientific detail make ‘Seveneves’ incredibly rich material for television,” said Legendary Television President Allison Friedman.
Originally intended as a feature film from Skydance and Ron Howard, the adaptation fell into development limbo in recent years. The television format allows for a more expansive rendering of Stephenson’s intricate narrative spanning centuries.
Industry insiders are eager to see Legendary tap their experience with franchises like Lost in Space and Dune to realize Seveneves’ scope. If successful, it could reinvigorate interest in a potential film component as well.
Fans will await announcements on casting, production details, and projected premiere windows as work begins in earnest to bring Stephenson’s vision to life. His blend of scientific prowess and spellbinding storytelling makes “Seveneves” poised to launch Legendary’s television slate to bold new frontiers.
