WarnerMedia has reversed course, moving its “Snowpiercer” adaptation back to its original network: TNT.
The drama, which has a two-season order, is still on track to debut next spring. Earlier this year, “Snowpiercer” was moved from TNT, where it had been initially developed, over to TBS.
“We’ve had the unique opportunity to more thoroughly test and explore where this show will best perform. While we are still adding dramas to TBS (such as ‘Obliterated’), after further research and consideration we’ve decided to keep ‘Snowpiercer’ on TNT,” said Kevin Reilly, Chief Content Officer, HBO Max and president, TNT, TBS, and truTV. “Now that we’ve seen this incredible post-apocalyptic sci-fi series in its entirety, and better understand the audience this show will appeal to, we’re confident it will perform strongest on TNT.”
The series is an adaptation of the 2014 Bong Joon-ho film of the same name starring Chris Evans and Tilda Swinton. Set seven years after the world has become a frozen wasteland, the series centers on humanity’s survivors, who inhabit a gigantic, perpetually-moving train circling the globe. The TV version stars Daveed Diggs and Jennifer Connolly in Evans’ and Swinton’s roles, respectively.
The project has overcome a number of development stumbles, including a contentious showrunner swap, extensive reshoots and an initial move from TNT to TBS.
Josh Friedman wrote the pilot and was set to serve as showrunner, but was replaced by “Orphan Black” co-creator Graeme Manson last year, a decision the network attributed to creative differences. Friedman later said he was “fired” from the project, and went after Manson on Twitter for taking over the show. Following Friedman’s exit, director Scott Derrickson exited the project due to a “radically different vision” from Manson, and was replaced by James Hawes.
“Snowpiercer” moving to TBS was supposed to herald a new strategy for the comedy-themed cable network that included dramas. Just hours before this announcement, TBS ordered action drama “Obliterated” from the creator of “Cobra Kai” straight to series.