Deadline reports that Temple Street Productions (Orphan Black) will be developing a new series adaptation based on Susan Swan’s 1983 novel The Biggest Modern Woman of the World. Swan expressed his excitement with the adaptation by saying the novel was “very close to her heart” and it was the “ideal dream” to bring the true story to television.
The Biggest Modern Woman of the World novel takes place between 1846 and 1888 which follows the true story of Anna Swan, a seven-foot-six giant woman. She was one of P.T. Barnum’s exhibitions. The novel tells Anna’s life from childhood as one of 13 children of poor Scottish immigrants in Nova Scotia through a life of showbusiness that took her to New York and across Europe up until her death in 1888.
“Susan Swan’s wonderful novel examines Western culture’s obsession with size and abnormality as Anna’s astonishing life unfolds. Ultimately it is an unlikely story of triumph over adversity which will resonate deeply with audiences worldwide. We’re delighted that we have one of the strongest voices in Canada, the multiple award-winning Hannah Moscovitch, to adapt the series.” Temple Street’s Kerry Appleyard said during her interwiew with the outlet.
Canadian playwright Hannah Moscovitch (X Company, Played) is set to penned the adaptation. The Biggest Modern Woman of the World series will be executive produced by Temple Street’s Co-Chairmen and owner of Boat Rocker David Fortier and Ivan Schneeberg along with Trish Williams (Saving Hope) and Moscovitch. Boat Rocker has control over the international rights to the series.
Screenwriter Moscovitch added that she is honored and excited to be able to work with Temple Street and to be able to bring Anna’s story to life. “I am beyond thrilled to be working with the award-winning team at Temple Street, to bring Susan Swan’s novel about the extraordinary Anna to our screens. Part truth, part legend, The Biggest Modern Woman of the World is a saucy romp through traditional categories of gender, sexuality and nationality and working on it is going to be a huge pleasure.”
Temple Street is a Canadian production studio best known for producing the award-winning science fiction series Orphan Black starring Emmy-winning actress Tatiana Maslany (Destroyer).
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