Fresh from the accomplishment of his successful television rendition of “Heated Rivalry” on Crave, Jacob Tierney is embarking on a new venture centered on a Canadian literary gem. Tierney is set to write, direct, and executive produce “Alexander,” a fresh series adapted from the 2009 novel “The Golden Mean” by Vancouver author Annabel Lyon, as announced by Netflix on Thursday.
Set in fourth-century BC Greece, “Alexander” explores the dynamics that unfold when Aristotle assumes the role of tutor for the rebellious and tempestuous teenage prince, Alexander the Great.
“The Golden Mean” achieved international acclaim, garnering nominations for prestigious accolades like the Giller Prize and the Governor General’s Literary Award for fiction, and securing a win for the Writers’ Trust Fiction Prize.
Expressing his admiration for Annabel Lyon’s book, Tierney stated, “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 initially approached her about adapting the novel in 2014, five years post its release, showcasing unwavering dedication to the project.
For enthusiasts of “Heated Rivalry,” Tierney’s latest project may ring a bell. His fascination with Nova Scotia author Rachel Reid’s hockey romance series, “Game Changers,” inspired him to adapt the second book, “Heated Rivalry,” into a TV series bearing the same name. The show premiered on Crave in November and stands as its most successful original series to date, propelling Tierney into the spotlight as a prominent figure in TV production.
Jinny Howe, Netflix’s head of scripted for U.S. and Canadian series, expressed excitement about collaborating with Tierney on “Alexander,” praising his innovative storytelling. The series promises to reimagine the classic mentor-protégé power struggle with a contemporary edge that balances grandeur with intimacy.
Joining Tierney as executive producers on “Alexander” are Brendan Brady, who co-produced “Heated Rivalry,” alongside Michael Costigan and Jason Bateman of Aggregate Films. Lyon, assuming a consultative role in the project, commended Tierney’s suitability for adapting her novel, citing his ability to capture the essence of complex characters.
Reflecting on the significance of the book’s adaptation 17 years after its publication, Lyon emphasized the enduring themes of ambition, greed, war, and love that transcend time, aspiring for the series to resonate with audiences across different eras.
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