NBC is planning a limited run miniseries based on the Underground Railroad titled Freedom Run, executive produced by the legendary Stevie Wonder. NBC chairman, Robert Greenblatt, who announced the project at the Television Critics association winter tour this morning, is hoping the musician will also be able to score the production, which is still in early stages.
The 8 hour series will be adapted from Pulitzer Prize finalist Betty DeRamus’ acclaimed book Forbidden Fruit: Love Stories From the Underground Railroad. It will focus on three specific epic journeys and love stories, each based on actual people.
In addition, the book is in development as a stage musical from Broadway producer Tara Smith’s Triptyk Studios, Brian LaRoda and Universal Stage Productions, with Stevie attached to provide the score. Swibel, Westbrook and Charles Randolph-Wright will write the book. Universal Stage Productions currently produces the cultural phenomenon “Wicked” and the 10-time Tony Award-winning “Billy Elliot.”
The book “Forbidden Fruit: Love Stories From the Underground Railroad” depicts one of the greatest mass escapes in recorded history through a collection of gritty, largely untold true love stories about ordinary men and women, slave and free, black and white, who risked everything to be together, fighting for love in a time of hate. Their astounding escapes simultaneously contributed to, characterized and helped create what would come to be known as the Underground Railroad, a heroic rebellion of epic proportions.
“We’re increasingly looking for projects that qualify as television events and these harrowing true stories of courageous young men and women who found love, in spite of the heinousness of slavery, certainly does that,” said Greenblatt. “Furthermore, the idea of also developing this into a Broadway musical with Stevie Wonder is very exciting as we look to expand the scope of our live stage business. We’re thrilled that these producers wanted to bring this important project to us.”
Read more at The Hollywood Reporter, NBC
