‘Scandal,' 'HTGWM' creator Shonda Rhimes in talks with ABC for a 'Romeo and Juliet' sequel
A “Romeo and Juliet” sequel is being planned by ABC. Shonda Rhimes, creator of “Scandal” and “How to Get Away With Murder,” is reportedly discussing her role in the TV production with the network.
Variety writes that the sequel is an adaptation of “Still Star-Crossed,” which is taken from the 2013 book of the same title that continues the events after lovers Romeo and Juliet committed suicide at the end of their tragic relationship. The story, inspired by the young adult novel by Melinda Taub, will focus on the conflict between the Capulets and the Montagues, the respective families of the legendary romantic partners, after their demise.
Vanity Fair cites that the tagline of the novel is, “Will love live on?” which indicates that there will be more wartime predicaments to expect. The book delves into the political marriage between Benvolio, the cousin of Romeo, and Rosaline, the girl Romeo was infatuated with before he met Juliet. Benvolio is more diplomatic and not one to fight. The play ended with a promise that there will be people who will be pardoned and punished accordingly.
The show will be presented on ABC by Rhimes, Betsy Beers and writer Heather Mitchell.
Mitchell served as writer and producer of “Scandal” and “Grey’s Anatomy,” and will be writer and executive producer of the budding project. Rhimes and Beers will serve as non-writing producers. Michael R. Goldstein of The MrG Production Co. will also serve as executive producer.
Working on the new project will be a new experience and genre for Rhimes. Shonda previously worked on “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal,” “How to Get Away With Murder,” and “Private Practice,” which were all successful in their own rights. Shondaland has another upcoming ABC show, “The Catch,” which stars Peter Krause and Mireille Enos, based on the same Variety report. “The Catch” will replace the Thursday slot of “HTGAWM” in the midseason, Entertainment Weekly reveals.
Rhimes, Goldstein and Taub are represented by ICM Partners. Mitchell and Beers are represented by UTA.
More updates and details on the plot, characters and launch date of the “Romeo and Juliet” sequel are expected soon.
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