My Name is Leon Novel Optioned for TV

Kit de Waal’s best-selling novel My Name is Leon has been optioned for TV by Sir Lenny Henry’s production company, Douglas Road Productions.

Set in 1980s Britain, My Name is Leon tells the story of 9-year-old Leon discovering a new family where he least expects it. Douglas Road, which is part of Endemol Shine Group, licensed the broadcast rights.

While recording the audio book for My Name is Leon, Henry rang his colleagues at Douglas Road and said: “I’m reading this novel called My Name is Leon and it’s stealing my heart and refusing to give it back!” He wanted to retell Leon­­’s story for the screen because “there are so many young people out there that need their voice to be heard—perhaps Leon’s story will give them the courage to speak.”

Barbara Emile, the creative director of Douglas Road Productions, said, “Kit is an exciting new writing talent, bringing a unique insight to the type of diverse drama that defines the ambition of Douglas Road Productions.”

Commented de Waal, “When I heard Lenny Henry was doing the audiobook, I crept into the recording studio to listen. He wasn’t only pitch perfect but I realized just from the way he spoke that he got it, he understood what was going on for Leon. So when he told me he was interested in bringing Leon to the screen I was absolutely delighted. There is no one better to bring Leon to life.”