‘Divergent’ Film Franchise to Continue as TV Series

The “Divergent” franchise could be making the move to television. Starz is currently developing a TV project for “Ascendant,” which is the final installment of the series. The previous films are based upon the wildly popular book series “Divergent” by Veronica Roth. Due to poor box office returns on the third movie “Allegiant," Lionsgate originally cut down the budget for the final film before scrapping the project altogether. Starz may rescue the franchise from the ashes, but it may not feature the familiar faces from previous films, according to THR.

The stars of the “Divergent” series had deals with Lionsgate with a film project in mind, not TV, and the difference could make or break the project. Shailene Woodley (“Big Little Lies”), who played main character Tris in the first three films, reacted negatively to the idea of a TV conclusion. She said to THR last September, “I signed up to tell the whole story of Tris, and I would love to be able to do that. Nothing would make me happier.” Fellow stars Theo James (“Allegiant”) and Ansel Elgort (“Baby Driver”) could also leave the franchise if they dislike the idea of a “Divergent” TV series.

Adam Cozad (“The Legend of Tarzan”) is attached to write the project’s script, and will produce alongside Lee Toland Kriege (“The Age of Adeline”); both were previously brought on to the fourth film before Lionsgate dropped the project. While the film side of Lionsgate lost interest, the revived project could bring praise to the studio’s TV division. Lionsgate TV is responsible for Netflix’s “Orange is the New Black” and the “Dear White People” series, among others.

“Ascendant” was meant to premiere June 9, but after it was scrapped by Lionsgate, a new premiere date hasn’t been set.

Do you think the “Divergent” series should go unfinished if it’s only option is a TV series? Or do you think Starz will give the franchise a decent sendoff? Let us know in the comments below!

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