The incredibly frenetic life of the late writer Hunter S. Thompson could soon find its way to TV. MGM Television on Monday announced that it is developing an authorized bio project about the “gonzo” journalist with Get Shorty showrunner Davey Holmes.
Dubbed Fear & Loathing, after Thompson’s seminal 1973 collection Fear and Loathing on the Campaign Trail, the project is the first effort under Holmes’ new overall deal with MGM TV.
“As we look to the future of MGM Television, it is imperative that we forge long-term relationships with creators who have an eye for dynamic storytelling,” MGM Television Group president Mark Burnett said in a statement. “Davey is tremendously talented and has demonstrated that he can deliver quality programming that will resonate with viewers.”
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Get Shorty, Homes’ take on the Elmore Leonard novel first adapted as a 1995 feature, has been a standout for Epix, which is not exactly known for its original scripted content. The critically acclaimed series was quickly snapped up for a sophomore season. Holmes will continue to serve as showrunner on Get Shorty and, should it go to series, he will share showrunning duties on Fear & Loathing with Oscar nominee Bob Nelson (The Confirmation, Nebraska).
Thompson’s life should provide no shortage of fodder for a TV series. The journalist was famous for embedding with subjects such as the Hells Angels biker gang, his ridiculing of Richard Nixon and an unsuccessful bid to become sheriff of Pitkin County, Colorado.
“After resisting overall deals for years, I couldn’t be more excited or proud to be embracing this one,” said Holmes. “It’s a partnership with a studio that makes some of the most exciting television out there. I can’t say enough about the intelligence, daring creativity and overall support MGM has brought to our collaboration.”
Prior to Get Shorty, Holmes worked on Shameless, In Treatment and Pushing Daisies, among other series. He is repped by WME.
