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Snowpiercer TV series has already lost its head writer

From Digital Spy

Screenwriter and Snowpiercer showrunner Josh Friedman has officially parted ways with TNT just two weeks after the project was given the go ahead.

An episodic spin-off of Bong Joon-ho and star Chris Evans' critically-acclaimed science fiction movie has been in the works at US channel TNT for more than two years, but earlier this month it was confirmed that TNT had given the project a full series order.

Friedman wrote the script for the pilot, and was signed up to serve as executive producer for Snowpiercer too, but Variety now reports that he is no longer attached to the series.

A replacement is yet to be announced.

Related: 10 acclaimed films that never made it to UK cinemas, from Snowpiercer to The Spectacular Now

Based on Bong Joon-ho's film, Snowpiercer takes place on a train that is carrying the survivors of the human race seven years after an apocalypse.

The pilot was directed by Doctor Strange filmmaker Scott Derrickson, and Jennifer Connelly is set to star in the TV spin-off as a first-class passenger and leader who's fascinated by the less fortunate train inhabitants.

Daveed Diggs, Mickey Sumner, Susan Park and Benjamin Haigh are also lined up to appear.

Photo credit: Marc Piasecki / WireImage / Getty Images
Photo credit: Marc Piasecki / WireImage / Getty Images

[Jennifer Connelly]

Speaking after the full-series order announcement, TNT executive vice president Sarah Aubrey said she jumped at the chance to work on the TV show.

"I'm a personal fan of Bong Joon-ho's epic film, and jumped at the chance to honour his original vision, yet expand upon the world and characters with a diverse, award-winning cast," she said.

"Science fiction is the perfect genre to examine issues of race, class, gender and natural resources with thought-provoking and exciting storytelling. Snowpiercer will explore those relevant issues while embarking on a wild, action-filled ride."

Snowpiercer is yet to secure a confirmed US air date.


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