FX is in the final stages of securing a pilot order for a new project inspired by the classic comedy film “Young Frankenstein” by Mel Brooks. The upcoming project, tentatively titled “Very Young Frankenstein,” is set to bring a fresh take on the beloved story to the small screen.
While specific plot details are being kept under wraps, it has been confirmed that Mel Brooks will be involved as an executive producer, alongside his producing partner Kevin Salter. The project will be spearheaded by Stefani Robinson, Taika Waititi, and Garrett Basch, all of whom have previously worked on FX’s hit series “What We Do in the Shadows.” Robinson will serve as the writer and showrunner, with Waititi taking on the role of director. Michael Gruskoff, who produced the original film, will also be an executive producer. The project is being produced by 20th Television.
“Young Frankenstein,” originally released in 1974, is considered a comedy masterpiece and is often cited as one of the greatest comedy films of all time. The film follows Dr. Frederick Frankenstein as he inherits his grandfather’s castle in Transylvania and embarks on a madcap journey to bring a dead body back to life. The star-studded cast includes Gene Wilder, Marty Feldman, Cloris Leachman, Teri Garr, Peter Boyle, and Madeline Kahn.
Gene Wilder not only starred in the film but also co-wrote the screenplay with Mel Brooks. Brooks later adapted the film into a successful stage musical, following the same path he took with “The Producers.”
If the pilot for “Very Young Frankenstein” moves forward, it will be the latest in a string of television adaptations of Mel Brooks’ iconic films. Previously, Hulu aired the sketch comedy series “History of the World, Part II,” which served as a continuation of the 1981 film “History of the World, Part I.”
The news of the new project was first reported by Deadline, and representatives for 20th Television and FX have declined to comment on the development. Fans of Mel Brooks’ work are sure to be excited about the prospect of a fresh take on the classic tale of “Young Frankenstein” making its way to television screens in the near future.
