Idris Elba to Play ‘Okonkwo’ in ‘Things Fall Apart’ TV Series Adaptation 

A24 is developing a TV series version of Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart,” with Idris Elba slated to star and executive produce, Variety has learnt exclusively.

There is presently no writer linked to the project, and it is not set up on a streaming service or network. Elba and Gina Carter will executive produce under their newly formed 22Summers production brand. David Oyelowo and Amanda N’Duka will executive produce through Yoruba Saxon. Ben Forkner, Dayo Ogunyemi, and Achebe Masterworks all act as executive producers. A24 is the studio.

The official synopsis of “Things Fall Apart” notes that it is “the story of Okonkwo (Elba), one of literature’s most iconic characters—a fearless African warrior and leader who is adamant about preserving his people and culture.” As British colonisers destroy his environment, Okonkwo’s struggle to preserve power and tradition turns into a heartbreaking conflict. His unwavering determination, a fatal defect in the face of uncontrollable change, makes him an unforgettable figure, reflecting the conflict between strength, vulnerability, and adaptability.”

Things Fall Apart” is largely considered one of the greatest novels ever written. It has been translated into over 60 languages and received numerous honours, including the Nigerian National Merit Award and the Man Booker International Prize.

It is the first installment of Achebe’s African Trilogy, followed by “No Longer at Ease” and “Arrow of God.” It has previously been adapted for cinema and miniseries, with Pete Edochie portraying Okonkwo in the latter.

Elba recently received an Emmy nomination for his lead role in the Apple series “Hijack.” He also received four nominations for his performance in the British criminal thriller series “Luther” as well as for best guest actor in a comedy for “The Big C.” His other television roles include playing Stringer Bell on HBO’s “The Wire,” co-creating and starring in the show “Turn Up Charlie,” and producing and starring in “In the Long Run.” Elba’s cinematic credits include “Beasts of No Nation,” “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom,” “The Harder They Fall,” James Gunn’s “Suicide Squad,” and the role of Heimdall in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

He is represented by The Artists Partnership, Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole, and The Lede Company.

As a producer, Oyelowo and Yoruba Saxon most recently created the Paramount+ series “Lawmen: Bass Reeves,” in which Oyelowo also stars as Reeves. Yoruba Saxon is also producing the next Apple TV+ series “Government Cheese,” which will also feature Oyelowo. The business has produced films including “The After,” “The Water Man,” “A United Kingdom,” and the documentary “Ferguson Rising.”

Oyelowo is represented by CAA, Hamilton Hodell, Del Shaw Moonves, and ID.