Brandon Sanderson Shares Latest News on the Stormlight Archive TV Adaptation

If HBO’s various Game of Thrones prequels are any indication, there’s a strong appetite for fantasy series on TV. So, it’s no surprise that Apple TV is diving into the genre by adapting the works of one of the most celebrated fantasy authors: Brandon Sanderson. Earlier this year, it was announced that Apple TV is developing a Stormlight Archive series, with Sanderson himself set to write. While the show is still in the early stages, the author recently shared some exciting news.

In a conversation, Sanderson mentioned that they are currently searching for a showrunner and that he has already “interviewed a bunch” of candidates. He’s on the lookout for “high-caliber” talent to bring the series to life. While Sanderson will be writing the series, he anticipates needing a partner to help with the project. Beyond writing, he will also take on a producer role and has secured final approval on the adaptation, thanks to a unique deal with Apple for the rights to his expansive Cosmere universe.

When it comes to his vision for the adaptation, Sanderson aims for the fantasy world to feel authentic rather than resembling a renaissance fair. He expressed that a key aspect of fantasy is the ability to immerse readers in a believable story, stating, “This is a real place. This actually could happen, and some really simple things can kick you out in the television show.” Achieving this level of realism will likely require a substantial budget, similar to Amazon Prime’s The Rings of Power, which has set records as the most expensive TV series ever produced.

In addition to the Stormlight Archive, Apple TV is also working on a film adaptation of the original Mistborn trilogy, starting with 2006’s The Final Empire. While Sanderson is seeking a writing partner for The Stormlight Archive, he is personally handling the Mistborn project. In August, he revealed that he had completed the first draft of the script, although he noted that many more drafts are still ahead.

Sanderson is also set to return to the Mistborn novels soon, with Ghostbloods scheduled for release in 2028, marking the beginning of the series’ third era. Outside of Apple TV, Sanderson’s Skyward is also in line for a television adaptation by the same team responsible for Netflix’s live-action One Piece.