Matt Shakman is set to direct a new A24 series featuring Nicole Kidman and Elle Fanning, with Paramount+ ordering the project straight‑to‑series in October 2025. The drama , based on a short story by Chandler Baker, will explore a mentor‑protege relationship and the moral cost of keeping secrets.

Paramount+ Secures Rights After Competitive Bidding War

Paramount+ secured the series rights in October 2025, beating out several undisclosed bidders, according to the source. the network awarded a straight‑to‑series order, signaling confidence in Shakman's track record with prestige television.

Kidman and Fanning Lead a Mentor‑Protege Thriller

The show casts Oscar‑winner Nicole Kidman opposite Elle Fanning, who also serves as an executive producer through Lewellen Pictures. The logline asks, “Who gets to keep secrets, and at what cost?” highlighting the series’ focus on ethical dilemmas within a shifting power dynamic.

Shakman's Reunion with Fanning Follows Emmy‑Nominated Work on The Great

Shakman previously directed the pilot of Hulu’s The Great, earning an Emmy nomination for directing, and will now reunite with Fanning on this new project. His recent credits include the Apple TV drama Wild Things and the Marvel‑Disney+ hit WandaVision,underscoring his appeal to both streaming platforms and premium cable.

Executive Production Line‑up Features Kidman, Grant, and New Talent

Executive producers include Susannah Grant, Kidman, and Per Saari of Blossom Films, as well as Fanning, Dakota Fanning, and Brittany Kahan Ward via Lewellen Pictures. Joe Hipps of Cut To and Jordan Cerf of Linden Entertainment also join the roster, adding further industry heft.

Who Will Define the Series’ Secret‑Keeping Ethics?

The source does not disclose whether the short story’s author Chandler Baker will have a hands‑on role beyond writing, nor does it clarify the series’ planned episode count.. Additionally, the exact release window remains unannounced, leaving fans to wonder when the Kidman‑Fanning pairing will finally appear on screen.