Paramount UK and MGM+ Announce New ‘Treasure Island’ TV Series with David Oyelowo, Hayley Atwell, and Jack Huston
David Oyelowo, Hayley Atwell, and Jack Huston Lead New Adaptation of ‘Treasure Island’
David Oyelowo, Hayley Atwell, and Jack Huston are set to headline a fresh adaptation of the classic novel Treasure Island, which will be produced for MGM+ and Paramount+ UK.
Joining the trio are Tomer Capone and Tom Sweet, who will take on significant roles in the retelling of the beloved story by Robert Louis Stevenson. Oyelowo will portray the notorious Long John Silver, while Atwell will assume the role of Bess Hawkins, and Huston will play Aaron Graham.
The plot centers on Jim Hawkins, played by Sweet, who embarks on a transformative journey from a sheltered teenager to an adventurous young pirate. His discovery of a fabled treasure map, coupled with his mother Bess’ decisive actions, plunges both their lives into peril.
MGM+ and Paramount+ UK have described the series as a “bold, high-stakes coming-of-age adventure series for a new generation.” This announcement follows the successful sale of another notable adaptation, Lord of the Flies, to Netflix, produced by the BBC and Sony.
Produced by Playground, known for Wolf Hall, and distributed by Fifth Season, Treasure Island represents a noteworthy collaboration between major American media players. Paramount+ has acquired rights specifically for the UK and Ireland.
Michael Wright, head of MGM+, remarked, “This thrilling new adaptation of Stevenson’s classic adventure Treasure Island is a perfect expression of the MGM+ brand. It is classic Hollywood storytelling crafted for a contemporary audience, brought to life with an extraordinary ensemble cast.”
The six-part series was commissioned for Paramount+ by Sebastian Cardwell, Deputy Chief Content Officer for the UK, and Paul Testar, Commissioning Editor for Paramount+ UK & Ireland. Executive production oversight is in the hands of Wright and Alec Strum for MGM+, while Playground’s David Stern, Scott Huff, Colin Callender, and Daniel Gratton serve as executive producers, alongside Robert Murphy and Jeremy Lovering.
