Apple TV has secured a massive partnership with fantasy author Brandon Sanderson to adapt his expansive Cosmere universe. This landmark agreement provides Sanderson with significant creative authority over upcoming projects like Mistborn and The Stormlight Archive.
The unprecedented creative control of the Cosmere deal
Brandon Sanderson is set to act as the "architect of the universe" for his upcoming adaptations. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, this partnership grants him influence over everything from writing to casting approvvals, a level of power that exceeds what George R.R. Martin held during the production of HBO's Game of Thrones.
The first Mistborn screenplay has already been drafted, though specific details regarding the script remain confidential. this move signals a shift in how major studios handle high-profile authors, moving away from simple rights acquisitions toward deep-level creative collaborations.
Closing the fantasy gap left by Netflix and Disney+
Apple TV is currently a dominant force in science fiction with hits like Severance, Silo, and the upcoming Neuromancer series, but it has struggled to establish a foothold in the fantasy genre. competitors such as Netflix, Prime Video, HBO, and Disney+ have already captured much of the fantasy market share.
By securing Sanderson's interconnected universe, Apple TV is attempting to leapfrog into the genre with a built-in, dedicated fanbase. This strategy aims to turn the streamer into a primary destination for epic fantasy enthusiasts, moving beyond its current sci-fi specialty.
Sarah J. Maas and the 38 million-copy opportunity
The success of the Sanderson deal may tempt Apple TV to pursue Sarah J. Maas, a writer often referred to as the "queen of fantasy." According to a 2024 report from Time, Maas has sold over 38 million books worldwide across her interconnected series.
Maas's literary empire includes the Throne of Glass saga, the A Court of Thorns and Roses series, and the Crescent City novels. Much like Sanderson's Cosmere, Maas's work features a multiversal framework where different series are linked through magical portals and ancient, universe-hopping beings.
Will Apple TV match the autonomy Maas demanded on 'Call Her Daddy'?
A major question remains regarding whether Apple TV would offer Maas the same level of creative control granted to Sanderson.. In a recent interview on the Call Her Daddy podcast, Maas expressed a desire to be deeply involved in any future adaptations , describing herself as a "Type A control freak" who wants to ensure the vision matches her books.
Maas recently regained the rights to her A Court of Thorns and Roses series after Hulu officially dropped the project earlier this year. While she is actively looking for a new adaptation home, it remains unverified whether Apple TV is currently in talks with her or if they are simply a logical next step in her search for a production partner.
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