HBO Orders New Series from Damon Lindelof

HBO has given an eight-episode, straight-to-series order for The Chain, written and executive produced by Emmy winner Damon Lindelof (The Leftovers, Watchmen).

Based on the best-selling book by Adrian McKinty of the same name, The Chain is the first project under Lindelof’s two-year overall deal with HBO. Media Res (The Morning Show, Pachinko) is serving as co-studio for the adaptation.

The pilot story is written by Lindelof, Carly Wray and Breannah Gibson, with Lindelof and Wray writing the pilot script. Michael Ellenberg and Lindsey Springer serve as executive producers for Media Res, alongside Shane Salerno. McKinty is a co-executive producer.

“We are honored by our continued partnership with Damon Lindelof, one of the most singular and distinctive creators of our time,” said Francesca Orsi, executive VP of HBO programming and head of HBO drama series and films. “The Chain promises to continue his legacy of dropping us into the pit of the human brain and delivering in ways not only emotionally daring but, ultimately, transformative.”

“From the moment I heard the wild and original premise of Adrian’s book, I was shocked, surprised and angry I hadn’t thought of it myself,” Lindelof commented. “I’ve always wanted to try to adapt a great thriller, and this one has all the dark, weird, exhilarating touches that fire up my imagination. I feel so fortunate to reteam with Francesca, Casey and Michael, who first brought me to HBO 15 years ago, and I can’t wait to make The Chain a memorable link in their outstanding legacy.”