TNT’s network logo is “We Know Drama,” but the network announced plans today to delve into more genre programming, including a revival of the HBO classicTales from the Crypt.The Hollywood Reporterreveals that the network is planning on launching a two-hour horror block, curated byM. Night Shyamalan, lead by a new version ofTales from the Crypt. Here’s what TNT’s Sarah Aubrey had to say in a statement.
“This is a new genre for us in our series efforts and a great chance to partner withM. Night Shyamalan, whose blockbuster hitThe Visitreminded movie audiences andcriticsthis past summer that he truly is amaster of horror. This two-hourhorrorblock demonstrates not only TNT’s commitment to working with today’s top talents, but also our strategy to stand out in today’s marketplace by challenging the conventional rules of programming and scheduling.”
TNT president Kevin Reilly revealed during the network’s TCA panel that this new version ofTales from the Cryptwill be an hourlong show, with the rest of the two-hour block devoted to both long-form and short-form genre storytelling. The network president said that they hopeTales from the Cryptwill serve as an “umbrella” for several different shows throughout many genres. Here’s whatM. Night Shyamalanhad to say about the new series in his own statement.
“I couldn’t be more excited to be teaming up with Kevin Reilly, Sarah Aubrey and the entire TNT team in this unique endeavor. To be part of such a beloved brand likeTales from the Crypt, something I grew up watching, and to also have the chance to push the boundaries of genre television as a whole, is an inspiring opportunity that I can’t wait to dive into.”
M. Night Shyamalanis expected to direct the first installment ofTales from the Crypt. He is also executive producing with his Blinding Edge Pictures partner Ashwin Rajan. There are four other properties currently in the works to be a part of this horror block. The network wouldn’t say if the iconic Cryptkeeper will return or not. The series originated through the EC Comics series created byWilliam M. Gaines, which spawned the 1989 HBO TV series Tales from the Crypt. What do you think about Tales from the Crypt coming back to the small screen on TNT?
