Fresh from the triumph of his adaptation of “Heated Rivalry” for Crave TV, Jacob Tierney is embarking on a new project centered around revered Canadian literature. Tierney has been announced as the writer, director, and executive producer of “Alexander,” a series based on Annabel Lyon’s acclaimed 2009 novel, “The Golden Mean,” by Netflix.
Set in fourth-century BC Greece, “Alexander” explores the dynamic relationship between Aristotle and the young, rebellious prince, Alexander the Great, whom he tutors. Lyon’s novel, “The Golden Mean,” garnered international acclaim, securing nominations for prestigious literary awards such as the Giller Prize and the Governor General’s Literary Award, and clinching the Writers’ Trust Fiction Prize.
Expressing his passion for Lyon’s work, Tierney shared, “I fell in love with Annabel Lyon’s book ‘The Golden Mean’ years ago and have been dreaming of telling this story ever since.” The collaboration between Tierney and Lyon began in 2014, a few years after the novel’s release, showcasing Tierney’s unwavering commitment to the project.
For fans of “Heated Rivalry,” Tierney’s journey with “Alexander” resonates with familiarity. Inspired by Rachel Reid’s “Game Changers” series, Tierney’s adaptation of “Heated Rivalry” into a successful TV series propelled him into the limelight as a prominent figure in television production.
Jinny Howe, Netflix’s head of scripted for U.S. and Canadian series, expressed excitement about working with Tierney on “Alexander,” lauding his creative prowess. The series promises a contemporary twist on the classic mentor-protégé power struggle, blending epic scope with intimate storytelling.
Joining Tierney in the production of “Alexander” are Brendan Brady, a co-producer of “Heated Rivalry,” along with Michael Costigan and Jason Bateman of Aggregate Films. Lyon, who will provide consulting expertise for the project, commended Tierney’s ability to capture the essence of her novel in his previous work.
Reflecting on the adaptation process, Lyon emphasized the timelessness of themes like ambition, greed, war, and love, which she believes will resonate with audiences across different eras. The anticipation is high as “Alexander” aims to bridge the past and the present, offering a narrative that speaks to universal human experiences.
