NBC is developing a new series inspired by F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel The Great Gatsby. The upcoming show will reimagine the story as a modern-day police procedural set in New York. It will also introduce a gender-swapped version of one of the novel’s major characters, giving the familiar story a new direction.
According to Deadline, the series is titled Gatsby. It will follow a female New York State Police detective inspired by Nick Carraway, working alongside Jay Gatsby. Rather than following the novel’s original setting, the adaptation will use its characters as the foundation for a contemporary crime story.
NBC’s Gatsby is in development with Jake Coburn and Jason Tracey attached as writers
NBC has brought Jake Coburn and Jason Tracey on board to write the upcoming series. The new version will give its lead characters different professional backgrounds while maintaining their connection to Fitzgerald’s work.
Nicole “Nicky” Carraway, the female version of Nick Carraway, will be a decorated New York State Police detective who hopes to become a writer. Meanwhile, the series will portray Gatsby as a con man with a talent for reading people. The two characters will bring different skills to the story as they navigate the show’s crime-focused setting.
The original 1925 novel follows Nick Carraway, who moves to Long Island and becomes acquainted with his wealthy neighbor, Jay Gatsby. Nick gradually discovers Gatsby’s past and his desire to rekindle his relationship with Daisy Buchanan. The novel explores themes of wealth, social status, ambition, and the American Dream.
Several filmmakers have adapted the novel over the years. Baz Luhrmann’s 2013 version remains among its best-known screen adaptations. The film featured Leonardo DiCaprio as Jay Gatsby, Tobey Maguire as Nick Carraway, and Carey Mulligan as Daisy Buchanan.
Unlike these previous adaptations, NBC’s project will place the characters in a crime-drama setting. The decision to reimagine Nick as a female detective also gives the series a distinct identity. The network has yet to announce the cast or a potential release date for the series.
Originally reported on ComingSoon.
