Netflix has abandoned its intention to convertThe Kane ChroniclesbyRick Riordaninto a series of three feature films. The announcement came directly from Riordan, the acclaimed author behind the belovedPercy Jackson and the Olympiansseries, in response to a fan’s inquiry on Goodreads.
PerVariety, Riordan explained thatThe Kane Chroniclesis now in “turnaround,” a term used in the entertainment industry to indicate that a project is no longer moving forward with its original studio or network. Despite two years of effort to develop a script for the adaptation, Netflix ultimately chose to abandon the project. The future of the adaptation now depends on whether another studio is willing to take on the preproduction costs and continue the project. Riordan explained:
“Right now, Kane Chronicles is in ‘turnaround,’ which meansNetflix has decided not to move forward and their option has lapsed after trying for two years to develop a script they liked. Now it depends on whether another studio would like to step in, assume the preproduction costs, and move forward.”
The film trilogy was initially announced in 2020, with the first installment set to adaptThe Red Pyramid, the first book inThe Kane Chroniclesseries, which was released in 2010. The screenplay for the first film was being penned by Diandra Pendleton-Thompson, known for her work onStar Trek: Prodigy. Riordan had expressed optimism about the project in a 2022 blog post, stating that he was looking forward to a new draft of the script.
The Kane Chronicles: Is Netflix Still Adapting Rick Riordan’s Books?
It’s been a while since Rick Riordan fans have gotten an update on The Kane Chronicles film, but wouldn’t it work better as a TV series?
The Kane Chroniclesfollows the adventures of siblings Carter and Sadie Kane, who discover they are descendants of two powerful Egyptian pharaohs, Narmer and Ramses the Great.The Red Pyramid,The Throne of Fire, andThe Serpent’s Shadowmake up the series that has become popular among young readers for its fusion of action-filled tales and ancient Egyptian mythology. The characters fromThe Kane Chronicleshave also crossed paths with those from thePercy Jacksonuniversein a series of crossover novels titledDemigods and Magicians.
Rick Riordan’s Adaptations Face Mixed Fortunes Amid Streaming Industry Shifts
The decision to scrap the adaptation comes amid a broader trend in the streaming industry, where platforms are tightening their belts and reducing their development slates. This implies that a higher number of projects are being discontinued, and fewer are being approved for development. Riordan acknowledged this trend on Goodreads, noting that the cancellation ofThe Kane Chroniclesfilms is not unusual given the current climate.
Despite the setback forThe Kane Chronicles, there is still astrong appetite for Riordan’s work on screen. Bob Iger, CEO of Disney, highlighted the success ofPercy Jackson and the Olympianson Disney+ as its first season recently came to a close during the company’s recent quarterly earnings discussion. With over 110 million hours streamed, equivalent to roughly 20.6 million total views, the series has earned a renewal for a second season.
Fans of Riordan’s work will undoubtedly be disappointed by the news ofThe Kane Chroniclescancellation. However, the continued success of thePercy Jacksonseries on Disney+ offers some consolation, as it demonstrates the enduring popularity of Riordan’s storytelling in the world of screen adaptations.
