Exciting news for fans of fantasy literature: Amazon MGM Studios has acquired the rights to adapt Rebecca Yarros’ acclaimed *Empyrean* book series into a television series. This adaptation marks a significant step in expanding the narrative landscape, particularly as it is being produced by Michael B. Jordan’s Outlier Society. Jordan’s production company is committed to elevating Black and brown stories, having previously worked on notable projects such as N. K.Jemisin’s *Broken Earth* series and Tom Clancy’s *Without Remorse*.
Both Yarros and Liz Pelletier, founder of Entangled Publishing and its imprint, Red Tower, will serve as executive producers, ensuring the adaptation stays true to the heart of the source material.
Release Window for *Fourth Wing* Series
While a specific release date for the series has yet to be revealed, fans can rest assured that progress is being made. In July 2024, Outlier Society announced Moira Walley-Becket as the showrunner. She’s well-known for her work on *Anne with an E* and as a writer for *Breaking Bad*.During the Onyx Storm press tour, Yarros expressed her enthusiasm for the pilot script, stating it delighted her immensely. Based on current developments, the *Fourth Wing* series could debut as early as late 2025 or early 2026.
Adapting a Series in Progress
With three of the five planned books released in the *Empyrean* series (including the recently launched *Onyx Storm*), the adaptation was initiated while only the first book had been published. This situation has previously been seen in adaptations like *Harry Potter* and *Game of Thrones*, highlighting the risks involved if the series surpasses the source material. Yarros assured *Variety* that “there’s no chance” the show will outpace her writing, providing some reassurance for dedicated readers.
Casting Updates for the *Fourth Wing* Series
Currently, there’s no news regarding the casting of key characters such as Xaden and Violet, and no casting director has been appointed yet. However, Yarros is committed to a diverse ensemble. She emphasizes that Xaden should be portrayed by a person of color, engaging in meaningful discussions with Walley-Becket about the importance of representation. Yarros remarked, “She knows how important it is to me that we not remove marginalized people from the cast.”
Overview of *Fourth Wing*
The storyline of *Fourth Wing* introduces readers to Violet Sorrengail, a twenty-year-old who expected to live a quiet life among books in the Scribe Quadrant. Instead, her commanding mother has enlisted her in a fierce competition to become a dragon rider in Navarre, a path fraught with danger. Due to her fragility, Violet faces intense challenges as other candidates vie to eliminate her in pursuit of their own success, with Xaden Riorson, the feared wingleader, being one of her fiercest foes. As external threats loom against their kingdom, Violet grapples with personal rivalries and secret agendas within the Basgiath War College, where survival hinges on either graduation or death. This blend of fantasy romance and rich character dynamics caters to a new adult audience, diverging from traditional young adult narratives.
The book showcases a diverse range of characters and incorporates fantastical elements, appealing to fans of mythology and adventure while tackling themes relevant to older teens and adults alike.
(featured image: Entangled: Red Tower Books)
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