Adaptation of ‘Things Fall Apart’ Underway

Idris Elba is set to produce a new adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s classic novel, “Things Fall Apart”, alongside David Oyelowo. The novel, first published in 1958, is a central figure of modern African literature and has been translated into over 60 languages.

Born on November 16, 1930, and passed on March 21, 2013, Achebe was a Nigerian novelist, poet, and critic. His novel “Things Fall Apart” remains the most widely studied, translated, and read African novel. It has been adapted into a film and miniseries before, with Pete Edochie starring as Okonkwo in the miniseries.

The new adaptation will be executive produced by Elba and Gina Carter under their 22Summers production banner, with Oyelowo and Amanda N’Duka executive producing via Yoruba Saxon. Other executive producers include Ben Forkner, Dayo Ogunyemi, and Achebe Masterworks, with A24 as the studio.

The official logline of the series reads: “The story follows Okonkwo (Elba), a fearless African warrior and leader, as British colonisers disrupt his world. His struggle to maintain power and tradition becomes a heart-wrenching confrontation, embodying the tension between strength, vulnerability, and adaptability.”

Elba recently earned an Emmy nomination for his starring role in the Apple series “Hijack” and has been nominated four times for his role in the British crime thriller series “Luther”. He has also partnered with media mogul Mo Abudu for the film “Dust to Dreams”.

As a producer, Oyelowo and Yoruba Saxon most recently produced the Paramount+ series “Lawmen: Bass Reeves”, with Oyelowo also starring as Reeves. Yoruba Saxon is producing the upcoming Apple TV+ series “Government Cheese”.

What do you think about this new adaptation of “Things Fall Apart”? Share your thoughts in the comments below!