‘Earth Abides’ SF Adaptation Will Awaken On MGM+ Later This Year
by David Lewis
Earth Abides. I don’t know about you, but I take comfort in that. And so does MGM+, who announced an adaptation of the 1949 cult classic SF novel by George R. Stewart.
From creator and showrunner Todd Komarnicki (the screenwriter of Sully), Earth Abides will star Vikings vet Alexander Ludwig as Ish, a brilliant geologist who arises from a coma only to find out he might be the last person on Earth after a deadly virus has ravaged the planet.
Michael Phillips (The Sting) is serving as executive producer, along with Juliana Maio and Kearie Peak. Bronwen Hughes, who’s worked on Better Call Saul, The Walking Dead, and other notable series, is set to direct the pilot. Subsequent episodes will be directed by Rachel Leiterman, and Stephen Campanelli.
“It’s very special to reintroduce Earth Abides to fans of George Stewart’s seminal work of science fiction, as well as to a new generation,” MGM+ head Michael Wright said in a press release. “The story’s messages of humanity, hope, and compassion are as relevant today as they were nearly a century ago.”
“It has been an unmitigated thrill to adapt such a seminal sci-fi work, and the themes illuminated by George Stewart 75 years ago could not be more meaningful and timelier for the world we are living in today,” adds Komarnicki. “Despite the chaos and division that greets us every morning in the news, the truth remains that the way forward for society is through unity, compassion, forgiveness, understanding, and grace.”
Earth Abides begins production in Vancouver on April 8, and is set to premiere on MGM+ in late 2024.