A TV Adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s “Things Fall Apart” in Development Starring Idris Elba, David Oyelowo

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A24 Studios is set to bring Chinua Achebe’s classic novel, Things Fall Apart, to life in a TV series adaptation, with Idris Elba attached to star and co-produce. The announcement, first reported by Variety Magazine, confirms that the iconic Nigerian novel, which has shaped African literature for decades, will soon reach new audiences through this high-profile project.

Elba, known for his roles in Luther and Beasts of No Nation, is partnering with fellow British-Nigerian actor David Oyelowo to produce the series. The two will be joined by a team of experienced producers, including Gina Carter under Elba’s 22Summers production banner, as well as Oyelowo’s Yoruba Saxon label. A24, the studio behind critically acclaimed films such as Moonlight and Uncut Gems, will serve as the production studio, promising a high-quality adaptation.

The Legacy of Things Fall Apart

Written by the celebrated Nigerian author Chinua Achebe, Things Fall Apart was first published in 1958 and remains one of the most influential African novels to date. The book is the first in Achebe’s African Trilogy, followed by No Longer at Ease and Arrow of God. Achebe’s novel has been translated into over 60 languages and is widely regarded as a cornerstone of modern African literature. It has previously been adapted into a film and a miniseries, with Nigerian actor Pete Edochie famously portraying the lead character, Okonkwo, in the miniseries.

The upcoming adaptation will follow the novel’s powerful storyline, focusing on Okonkwo, a fierce warrior and respected leader of his community, whose world begins to crumble as British colonizers infiltrate and disrupt the traditional ways of life. The official logline of the series describes Okonkwo’s struggle as one “embodying the tension between strength, vulnerability, and adaptability.”A TV Adaptation of Chinua Achebe's "Things Fall Apart" in Development Starring Idris Elba, David Oyelowo

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Idris Elba and David Oyelowo’s Involvement

Idris Elba is set to take on the role of Okonkwo, bringing his celebrated acting skills to one of the most iconic characters in African literature. Elba, who recently earned an Emmy nomination for his role in the Apple TV+ series Hijack, has consistently delivered powerful performances across his career. As a producer, he has also been involved in several prominent projects, including his recent collaboration with Nigerian media mogul Mo Abudu on the film Dust to Dreams.

David Oyelowo, who is known for his roles in ”Selma and A United Kingdom, is no stranger to producing as well. Yoruba Saxon, Oyelowo’s production company, has developed several major projects, including the Paramount+ series Lawmen: Bass Reeves and the upcoming Apple TV+ series Government Cheese.

Their collaboration on Things Fall Apart represents not only a significant moment in their careers but also a testament to their dedication to telling African stories with authenticity and depth.

A New Chapter for Achebe’s Masterpiece

Although no writer has yet been attached to the project, anticipation is building around how this adaptation will breathe new life into Achebe’s masterpiece. The novel’s exploration of colonialism, tradition, and individual struggle continues to resonate, making it a relevant story for today’s audiences.

Producers Ben Forkner, Dayo Ogunyemi, and Achebe Masterworks will also be executive producers for the series, alongside Elba, Oyelowo, and Amanda N’Duka of Yoruba Saxon. The series is expected to strike a balance between preserving the original themes of the novel and appealing to a modern audience, with A24’s involvement suggesting a visually compelling and emotionally rich production.

As the project develops, fans of both the novel and the involved actors will be eager to see how Things Fall Apart is adapted for the screen. Given the talent attached and the legacy of the source material, this adaptation is already one of the most highly anticipated TV events in recent memory.

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