Amazon Studios continues its expansion into genre programming with a first-look deal with “Game of Thrones” co-executive producer Vince Gerardis, the company announced Wednesday.
The deal gives Amazon access to Gerardis’ extensive intellectual property library that includes work from science fiction and fantasy authors like Robert Silverberg, David Brin, Greg Bear and Jack Vance. The plan is to use that IP to create new original series.
“Vince has his fingertips on a ‘library of worlds,’ and I’m excited about the prospects of building multiple series with him,” said Amazon Studios Head of Scripted Genre Programming Sharon Yguado in a statement.
Gerardis added that Amazon was a good fit for him because of its book business.
“Amazon is the perfect home for my author clients given the strong relationship between its television and book business,” he said. “With scientifically-informed imaginations shaping the future, I am excited to see Amazon’s increasing commitment to high-end genre world-building.”
The two-time Emmy winner will produce the upcoming “Game of Thrones” spinoff series at HBO. Gerardis previously founded the literary management and production banner Created By, which was dedicated to developing and producing projects from his sci-fi and fantasy clients. Created By then merged with Startling, Inc, where Gerardis continues to develop large-scale, world-building IP.
The first-look deal announcement comes the day after Amazon revealed its first project under its deal with “Walking Dead” creator Robert Kirkman: an hour-long animated series based on Kirkman’s “Invincible” comics.