Fresh from the triumph of his television adaptation of “Heated Rivalry” on Crave, Jacob Tierney is embarking on a new project centered on a Canadian literary gem. Tierney has been tapped by Netflix to write, direct, and executive produce “Alexander,” a series based on Annabel Lyon’s acclaimed 2009 novel, “The Golden Mean.”
Set in fourth-century BC Greece, “Alexander” explores the dynamics that unfold when Aristotle takes on the role of mentor to the rebellious and tempestuous teenage prince, Alexander the Great. Lyon’s “The Golden Mean” garnered international acclaim, receiving nominations for prestigious literary awards such as the Giller Prize and the Governor General’s Literary Award for fiction, and clinching the Writers’ Trust Fiction Prize.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the project, 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.” Lyon revealed that Tierney first approached her about adapting the novel in 2014, demonstrating unwavering dedication to the project over the years.
Fans of “Heated Rivalry” may find the premise of “Alexander” reminiscent, as Tierney’s passion for Rachel Reid’s “Game Changers” hockey romance series led him to successfully adapt the second installment, “Heated Rivalry,” into a hit TV show for Crave. The series debuted in November and has become Crave’s most successful original production to date, solidifying Tierney’s reputation in the television industry.
Netflix’s head of scripted for U.S. and Canadian series, Jinny Howe, expressed excitement about collaborating with Tierney on “Alexander,” praising his creative vision and the contemporary energy he brings to classic narratives. Brendan Brady, a co-producer of “Heated Rivalry,” will also join the team as an executive producer, alongside Michael Costigan and Jason Bateman of Aggregate Films.
Lyon, who will provide consultancy on the project, commended Tierney for his ability to capture the essence of her characters. Reflecting on the timeliness of the adaptation, Lyon emphasized the enduring themes of ambition, greed, war, and love that resonate across time periods. She hopes that the adaptation will resonate with audiences by bridging the past and the present, offering a compelling narrative that speaks to universal human experiences.