Idris Elba to reprise Pete Edochie’s role in new ‘Things Fall Apart’ TV series

BY VICTOR CHIJIOKE

Idris Elba, the British actor, is set to executive produce and star in the TV adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s ‘Things Fall Apart‘.

The late Nigerian author first published the book in 1958.

‘Things Fall Apart’ is Achebe’s debut novel and the first book of the iconic literary mind’s African Trilogy, followed by ‘No Longer at Ease’ and ‘Arrow of God’.

The novel depicts the pre-colonial life in Igboland and the subsequent appearance of European missionaries and colonial forces in the late 19th century.

Watch the classic below:

The book was first brought to life as a movie in 1971 and a mini-series in 1987 with ace actor Pete Edochie playing Okonkwo, the novel’s protagonist, who was famous in the villages of Umuofia for being a wrestling champion.

According to Variety, a TV series adaptation of ‘Things Fall Apart’ is in development by the American production studio, A24.

Elba will executive produce the series alongside Gina Carter under their newly launched 22Summers production company.

Also among the executive producers are David Oyelowo, Amanda N’Duka, Ben Forkner, Dayo Ogunyemi and Achebe Masterworks.

Idris will take on the role of Edohie as Okonkwo in the new series.

Below is the series synopsis:

Things Fall Apart is the captivating story of Okonkwo (Elba), one of literature’s most iconic characters—a fearless African warrior and leader who is resolute about preserving his people and culture. As British colonizers disrupt his world, Okonkwo’s struggle to maintain power and tradition spirals into a heart-wrenching confrontation. His fierce resolve, a fatal flaw in the face of unstoppable change, makes him an unforgettable character, embodying the tension between strength, vulnerability and adaptability.

The news outlet reports that no writer is currently attached to the project, nor is it currently set up at a streaming service or network.

‘Things Fall Apart’ is seen as an archetypal modern African novel in English and one of the first such novels to receive global critical acclaim. It has been translated into over 60 languages and is a staple book in schools throughout Africa.

The novel is widely studied in English-speaking countries worldwide. It is also widely regarded as one of the greatest novels ever written.