The past week has been a whirlwind of speculation and uncertainty surrounding the “Crystal Lake” television series, a A24 and Peacock collaboration with Bryan Fuller (“Hannibal”) to expand the iconic Friday the 13th franchise. Amidst rumors of A24 abandoning the project, we clarified on Monday that the series is merely undergoing some behind-the-scenes adjustments.
So, what’s the real scoop? Bryan Fuller took to Instagram tonight to shed some light on the situation. The unfortunate news? Fuller has stepped away from the “Crystal Lake” series.
But don’t lose heart just yet! A24 hasn’t thrown in the towel on the project.
Fuller shared on Instagram, “I’ve had my fair share of experience adapting classic horror. These shows demand a vision that not only transforms but also delivers what audiences anticipate, a task that is both ambitious and risky. It requires people to take a leap of faith with me.
“When it clicks, as with HANNIBAL, the outcome can be incredibly rewarding for both the storytellers and the audience. I couldn’t be prouder of the work my co-showrunner Jim Danger Gray and I, along with our talented writing staff, were able to achieve despite the hurdles we encountered.
“Due to circumstances beyond our control, A24 has chosen to take a different approach with the material. We hope the final product will be something Friday the 13th fans worldwide will appreciate.”
A24 and Peacock are now on the hunt for a new showrunner for the series. Keep your eyes peeled for updates.
In 2022, Peacock greenlit the project, describing “Crystal Lake” as an “expanded prequel” to the original Friday the 13th franchise, featuring both Jason Voorhees and his mother, Pamela Voorhees. Adrienne King, the original Friday the 13th final girl, had even agreed to a recurring role in the anticipated A24 television series.
Bryan Fuller was initially slated to serve as writer, showrunner, and executive producer, with Victor Miller (the original classic’s writer), Marc Toberoff, Rob Barsamian, and A24 producing.
Kevin Williamson (Scream, Sick) was also set to pen an episode, as per the latest information.