The famous novel “Things Fall Apart” by Chinua Achebe will soon be adapted for television by British actors Idris Elba and David Oyelowo. The production is being handled by the A24 studio.
In addition to playing the legendary lead character of Okonkwo in the book, Idris will also serve as executive producer.
Although the composition of the writing team has not yet been disclosed, Variety reports that the adaptation features a formidable cast, including Gina Carter from the recently established 22Summers production company, Idris Elba’s executive producers, David Oyelowo, and Amanda N’Duka under their Yoruba Saxon banner.
The compelling tale of Okonkwo, a strong and self-assured leader who has an existential crisis when British colonists upend the world he once knew, is told in “Things Fall Apart,” a classic of African literature.
His tragic journey explores themes of change, resilience, and the painful collision between the old and new worlds as his drive to hold onto tradition and authority grows.
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“Things Fall Apart,” which was first published in 1958 and has been translated into more than 60 languages, is regarded as one of the best books ever written.
The book has received multiple honors, such as the Man Booker International Prize and the Nigerian National Merit Award.
It It is the first book of Chinua Achebe’s African Trilogy, which is followed by “Arrow of God” and “No Longer at Ease.”
In 1987, a miniseries adaptation by the Nigerian Television Authority saw Pete Edochie portraying the title character, Okonkwo, and was directed by David Orere and broadcast on Nigerian television.
Following the announcement, a number of Nigerians expressed disappointment on X over Idris portraying Okonkwo, the main character.
