Netflix has officially cancelled the adaptation of Stephen King’s The Talisman, a project that was to be helmed by the creators of Stranger Things, Matt and Ross Duffer. Announced in 2022, the film is no longer in development at the streaming giant.
The Duffer Brothers Speak Out
In a recent interview, the Duffer Brothers confirmed the news while speaking to CBR’s Grae Drake. “Sadly, Talisman is no longer at Netflix, so we’re not involved,” Ross Duffer said.
Background on The Talisman
The Talisman, co-authored by Stephen King and Peter Straub, debuted in 1984. The novel features Jack Sawyer, a young boy on a perilous quest to find a mystical artifact that can save his dying mother. A sequel, Black House, followed in 2001, bringing Jack back into the story as an adult detective.
Over the years, several attempts have been made to adapt the book into a film, including projects with Steven Spielberg’s Amblin Partners. The Duffer Brothers expressed regret at not being the ones to finally bring the tale to the screen. “I remember reading a movie script for Talisman during my internship in college,” Ross recalled. “It’s been in development forever,” he added.
The Future of the Franchise
Despite the setback with The Talisman, the Duffer Brothers continue to oversee new projects within the Stranger Things universe. The franchise remains under Netflix’s umbrella, which still holds the rights.
- Upcoming Projects:
- The stage play Stranger Things: The First Shadow, focusing on Henry Creel’s backstory
- An animated spinoff, Stranger Things: Tales from ’85, covering character arcs between Seasons 2 and 3
- Additional spinoff with a new cast and story, as confirmed by the Duffer Brothers
As the final season of Stranger Things gears up for its conclusion on December 31, 2025, fans can look forward to these new expansions of the beloved series. The Duffer Brothers have indicated that while they won’t be involved with The Talisman, original projects continue to be a priority.
