Game of Thrones author George R.R. Martin's in-the-works TV series Nightflyers, based on the novel of the same name, just took a big step forward. Not only did the project pick up a talented new showrunner, but it's looking more than likely this show could get a series order, and not only at Syfy where it was initially set up. Netflix is also getting involved.
For the nitty gritty behind Nightflyers deal, Deadline reports that Netflix is currently in talks to join the series as a co-producer, in an effort to make the project a crossover success for both the network and the streaming service. Current negotiations haven't been solidified, but if all goes according to plan, the deal will grant Netflix rights to international distribution as well as U.S. streaming rights when the first run of the series concludes. Considering this show is coming from the same mind that unleashed Game of Thrones upon the world, it sounds like a pretty sweet deal for everyone.
As mentioned earlier, Nightflyers has also tapped a new showrunner for the project in Daniel Cerone, whose portfolio includes The Blacklist and Dexter, as well as many other successful shows. (He also created the short-lived Constantine.) Additionally, the series has also tapped Mike Cahill, writer/director of the fantastic Another Earth and I, Origins, to direct the pilot for the potential series. Cahill also directed the pilot for Syfy's The Magicians, and given that show's success, it's no surprise the network is putting its faith in him for Nightflyers.
Nightflyers follows eight scientists and a telepath through space as misfortune begins to haunt their journey, turning the members against one another. The series is based on a novella of the same name written by George R.R. Martin in 1980, and was later developed into a feature film in 1987. The film isn't remembered too fondly by those who watched it, so hopefully the pilot does what it can to distance itself from that and attempt to liken itself more to Game of Thrones (without the incest).
While he was the writer of Nightflyers, we previously reported that George R.R. Martin will have no involvement in the series. Presumably, that's not for a lack of want, as Martin legally cannot be involved with the series due to his exclusivity agreement with HBO.
With negotiations still underway, there's no set date on when audiences can expect Nightflyers, which is fitting, as Season 8 of Game of Thrones is in the same boat. The good news is, at least for GoT fans, that plenty of the show's beloved characters have other projects that fans can watch while they wait for the big conclusion to HBO's big show. (Maybe one or some of them will get involved here, too.) For a list of great television new and returning that will be making its way to television within the next couple months, be sure to visit our fall premiere guide.
