English actor Idris Elba is set to portray Okonkwo, the iconic protagonist from Chinua Achebe’s classic novel Things Fall Apart, in a new TV series adaptation by American entertainment company A24.
In addition to starring in the series, Elba will also serve as executive producer.
Elba, widely known for his roles in Thor, The Suicide Squad, Pacific Rim, and Beasts of No Nation, has earned acclaim for his performances in TV series like The Wire and Luther.
He also portrayed Nelson Mandela in the 2013 biopic Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom.
The adaptation is still in its early stages, with no writer attached and no streaming service or network confirmed.
According to Variety, the series will explore the story of Okonkwo, a fearless African warrior and leader determined to preserve his culture and traditions as British colonisers disrupt his world.
His struggle to maintain power and tradition leads to a heart-wrenching confrontation, highlighting the tension between strength, vulnerability, and change.
Elba will executive produce the series through his production company, 22Summers, alongside Gina Carter. David Oyelowo and Amanda N’Duka will also serve as executive producers through Yoruba Saxon, with Ben Forkner, Dayo Ogunyemi, and Achebe Masterworks joining as additional executive producers. A24 is the studio behind the adaptation.
Things Fall Apart was first adapted into a movie in 1971 and later as a mini-series in 1987, with renowned Nigerian actor Pete Edochie portraying Okonkwo, the wrestling champion of Umuofia.
Source: The Nation
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